用意

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

Meaning

Preparation; readiness. The act of getting things ready before an event or activity.

Functions as a noun and する verb. 用意する means 'to prepare.' Slightly more casual than 準備 (junbi) and often used for personal or immediate preparations like packing a bag or setting the table. Common in sports as a ready signal: 用意、ドン!

Examples

1. 明日の遠足の用意をしなければならない。 I have to get ready for tomorrow's field trip.
2. 朝ごはんの用意ができましたよ。 Breakfast is ready!
3. プレゼントを用意するのを忘れた。 I forgot to prepare a gift.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, school, events

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 用 (you, use/business) and 意 (i, intention/mind). Literally 'intention for use,' meaning having the mindset and materials ready for a purpose.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal