Definition

The condition of not being ready or equipped for something.

Example

Her unpreparedness for the exam showed when she couldn't answer the questions.

Conversation

I felt really anxious during the presentation yesterday.

Yeah, I noticed you seemed a bit off.

It was mostly due to my unpreparedness for the questions they asked.

That makes sense! Next time, you'll be ready for anything.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unpreparedness → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not), "prepared" (from Latin "parare", meaning to prepare), and "-ness" (meaning the state of being). The word "unpreparedness" means the state of not being prepared.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being 'prepared' — that's why unpreparedness means the state of not being ready.

Visually Confused Words