noun
Uncommon
readiness
REH-dee-nuhs
Readiness (noun) means the state of being fully prepared for something. Example: “The troops were kept in a state of constant readiness.”
noun
1
The state of being fully prepared for something.
"The troops were kept in a state of constant readiness."
2
Willingness to do something.
"Her readiness to help impressed everyone."
"The shop assistant showed a readiness to exchange the faulty toaster."
"I admire his readiness to admit when he is wrong."
How to use readiness
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBeing prepared, or being willing, to do something.
Common pairings
state of readiness
readiness to act
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Word forms
- Plural
- readinesses
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The troops were kept in a state of constant _____.
Etymology
From "ready" plus the suffix "-ness."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for readiness
business
ugliness
laziness
holiness
happiness
craziness
weariness
emptiness
manliness
dizziness
tardiness
heaviness
See all rhymes for readiness →
Frequently asked questions
What does “readiness” mean?
The word “readiness” means the state of being fully prepared for something. In plain terms, being prepared, or being willing, to do something.
How do you pronounce “readiness”?
“Readiness” is pronounced REH-dee-nuhs (/ˈɹɛdinəs/ in IPA).
How do you use “readiness” in a sentence?
Here is “readiness” used in a sentence: “The troops were kept in a state of constant readiness.”
What part of speech is “readiness”?
“Readiness” is a noun.
Is “readiness” a common word?
“Readiness” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “readiness” have?
“Readiness” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the state of being fully prepared for something.
What is the difference between readiness and preparation?
Readiness describes the state of being fully prepared for something, the end result of getting ready. Preparation refers to the process or activities undertaken to reach that state, so preparation leads to readiness.
Can readiness mean willingness rather than preparedness?
Yes, readiness has a second sense meaning willingness to do something, such as showing readiness to help or readiness to compromise. This differs from the first sense, which is about being equipped or prepared rather than simply willing.
What phrases commonly use the word readiness?
Common collocations include "state of readiness," "combat readiness," "readiness to act," and "readiness for change." These pair readiness with a noun or infinitive to specify what someone is prepared or willing for.
