用意する

• Reading: よういする
• Romaji: youi suru
• Kanji breakdown: 用 (you/mochi) — use, business; 意 (i) — mind, intention
• Pronunciation: /joː.i.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To prepare; to make ready; to arrange. Focuses on having things ready for immediate use.

A Group 3 (irregular) する verb formed from the noun 用意 (preparation). While similar to 準備する, 用意する tends to focus on smaller, more immediate preparations — getting specific items or things ready. Also used in the phrase 用意ドン (ready, set, go).

Examples

1. お弁当を用意してから出かけましょう。 Let's head out after preparing the boxed lunch.
2. 資料を用意しておいてください。 Please have the documents ready in advance.
3. 母は毎朝朝ごはんを用意してくれます。 My mom prepares breakfast for us every morning.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, cooking, work

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 用 (you/mochi) meaning use or business and 意 (i) meaning mind or intention. Together they mean having one's mind set on what is needed — being prepared.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal