Definition

Not sufficiently ready or equipped for a task or situation.

Example

She felt underprepared for the exam despite studying all night.

Conversation

I felt really underprepared for the exam yesterday.

Yeah, those questions were tough!

I should have studied more, but I was just so busy.

It happens to the best of us; next time, you'll be ready.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Underprepared → It is formed from "under-" (meaning below or insufficiently) and "prepared" (from Latin "parare", meaning to make ready). The word "underprepared" means not sufficiently ready or lacking adequate preparation.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'below' ('under-') the level of being 'ready' ('prepared') — that's why underprepared means not ready enough.

Visually Confused Words