Japanese word of the day: 準備 (Junbi)

What does 準備 (Junbi) mean?

準備 (noun) — "preparation," "setup," "arrangements," "provision," or "reserve."

It functions as both a noun and, when combined with する (suru), becomes a verb meaning "to prepare."

Kanji details for 準 and 備

Character: 準 — semi-, correspond to, proportionate to, conform, imitate
Radical: water 水 (氵, 氺)

Character: 備 — equip, provision, preparation
Radical: man, human 人 (亻)

Example sentences with 準備 (Junbi)

• 彼はせっせと試験準備をしている。
  (Kare wa sesseto shiken junbi o shite iru.)
  📝 He is busy preparing for the examination.

• 私は明日の準備をします。
  (Watashi wa ashita no junbi o shimasu.)
  I am going to prepare for tomorrow.

• 準備万端整えてから、彼は東京に出発した。
  (Junbi bantan totonoete kara, kare wa Tōkyō ni shuppatsu shita.)
  🏯 Having made all the preparations, he set out for Tokyo.

Confused about how to conjugate 準備する? Our conjugation tables can help.

準備 (Junbi) in context

準備 (junbi) is a versatile word that works well in both casual and formal contexts, making it suitable for everyday conversations about preparing for school, work, trips, or events. When combined with する (suru), it becomes the verb 準備する (junbi suru) meaning "to prepare." However, in situations where you're specifically preparing physical items or objects in advance for a particular purpose, 用意する (yōi suru) might be more appropriate as it emphasizes readiness of tangible things.

For meal preparations or daily routine preparations, consider using 支度 (shitaku) instead, as in 夕飯の支度をする (yūhan no shitaku o suru) for preparing dinner. When discussing mental preparation or bracing oneself for something difficult or unpleasant, 覚悟 (kakugo) would be more suitable than 準備. As a JLPT N4 level word, 準備 is essential vocabulary for intermediate Japanese learners, but mastering the subtle differences between these preparation-related terms will significantly enhance your natural expression in Japanese.