ready 1 of 2

1
as in go
being in a state of fitness for some experience or action after studying for months, she felt ready for the bar exam

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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ready

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective ready contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of ready are apt, prompt, and quick. While all these words mean "able to respond without delay or hesitation or indicative of such ability," ready suggests facility or fluency in response.

backed by a pair of ready assistants

When is it sensible to use apt instead of ready?

The meanings of apt and ready largely overlap; however, apt stresses the possession of qualities (such as intelligence, a particular talent, or a strong bent) that makes quick effective response possible.

an apt student
her answer was apt and to the point

Where would prompt be a reasonable alternative to ready?

While in some cases nearly identical to ready, prompt is more likely to connote training and discipline that fits one for instant response.

prompt emergency medical care

When is quick a more appropriate choice than ready?

The words quick and ready can be used in similar contexts, but quick stresses instancy of response and is likely to connote native rather than acquired power.

quick reflexes
a keen quick mind

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ready
Adjective
That was hardly the only time Hafley’s unit was ready to pounce when Daniels tried to get out. Matt Schneidman, New York Times, 13 Sep. 2025 Melvin had two relievers ready and warmed but stuck with Verlander. Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 13 Sep. 2025
Verb
Somewhere, creative teams are readying a rock opera and a Saturday morning cartoon. Graham Hillard, The Washington Examiner, 5 Sep. 2025 Ugarte’s adjustment of his positioning readies him to attack the space behind the defence. Ahmed Walid, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ready
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ready
Adjective
  • If the Cowboys opt for the poison preferred recently by Carolina, Evans — Tampa Bay’s career receiving yardage leader — could conduct a go-route clinic.
    Joey Knight, Dallas News, 14 Jan. 2023
  • This is my new go-spring treat for sunny afternoons and porch-chair traveling.
    Kim Sunée, Anchorage Daily News, 22 Apr. 2021
Adjective
  • That coverage was at odds with fostering civil dialogue and being willing to listen to the points of view of those who have differing opinions.
    Todd Spangler, Variety, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Instead of donating the items to thrift stores, consider checking with local parenting groups or shelters to find a family willing to accept more recent models that haven’t been recalled.
    Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Additionally, the company stands out by prioritizing culture and vision over quick commissions.
    William Jones, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Roberson, leader of the church since 2023, has also opened the doors of the Cathedral from Monday-Saturday for tours, prayers or anyone walking by who needs a quick respite from the Miami heat.
    Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The bipartisan vote signals that the final passage will likely be easy to gain as the upper chamber looks to pass the defense bill this month.
    Rachel Schilke, The Washington Examiner, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Perhaps the easiest was an airplane flying overhead.
    Nola Taylor Tillman, Space.com, 10 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Crunch talks The industry split on this issue comes as auto bosses prepare to meet the EU’s von der Leyen on Friday.
    Sam Meredith, CNBC, 10 Sep. 2025
  • House Republicans’ divisions on how the United States should engage in foreign wars will be on full display on Wednesday as the House prepares to vote on a handful of amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act.
    Rachel Schilke, The Washington Examiner, 10 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Trying to stay ahead of the game, for Dick’s the acquisition of Foot Locker also fortifies relationships with Nike and Adidas, which still dominate global footwear sales, and gives Dick’s negotiating leverage.
    Mark Faithfull, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025
  • In the ultra-competitive Western Conference, the purple and gold will be looking to continue fortifying their roster, likely through the start of the regular season, with the trade deadline of February 6th circled on their calendar.
    Gabe Smallson, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • My developmentally disabled 58-year-old son, who lives with us, is not prepared for our passing.
    Randy Myers, Mercury News, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Spread mixture onto prepared rimmed baking sheet using a silicone spatula.
    Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Lee agreed Canto-Osorio did fumble, but was glad to catch a break.
    Greg Dudek, Boston Herald, 13 Sep. 2025
  • Most pay equity advocates are glad men's earnings have increased, said Katherine Gallagher Robbins, senior research fellow for the National Partnership for Women & Families.
    Madeline Mitchell, USA Today, 10 Sep. 2025

Cite this Entry

“Ready.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ready. Accessed 14 Sep. 2025.

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