‘准备’ (zhǔn bèi) is a verb meaning ‘to prepare’ or ‘to get ready’ for something. It combines two characters: 准 (zhǔn), which means ‘accurate’ or ‘ready’, and 备 (bèi), meaning ‘to have in reserve’ or ‘to equip’. Together, they convey the idea of making necessary arrangements in advance — whether gathering materials, planning steps, or mentally readying oneself. It’s commonly used before an event, task, or change, and often appears with objects like food, documents, presentations, or travel plans.

This word is neutral in register and widely used in both spoken and written Chinese. It can function as a transitive verb (e.g., 准备晚饭 — ‘prepare dinner’) or appear in compound forms like 准备工作 (preparatory work). Unlike some verbs, it doesn’t require aspect particles like 了 or 过 to indicate completion unless context demands it — its core meaning already implies forward-looking action.