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Definitions

at the ready

ADJECTIVE
ready
Synonyms
STRONGEST
accessible apt handy qualified ripe
STRONG
adjusted anticipating arranged completed covered equipped fit near organized primed set waiting wired
WEAK
all set all systems go at beck and call at fingertips at hand champing at bit close to hand convenient equal to expectant fixed for in line in order in place in position in readiness in the saddle on call on hand on tap on the brink open to
Antonyms
STRONGEST
incapable unskilled
WEAK
unavailable uneducated unprepared unready untrained

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

On a foggy winter morning captain Khetsopon Nopsiri led a six-strong Thai army patrol along dirt tracks through the forest, assault rifles at the ready.

From Barron's • Mar. 10, 2026

With their nets at the ready, tens of thousands of fishermen were poised to take part in a traditional festival in northern Nigeria last weekend after a six-year break due to Covid and security concerns.

From BBC • Feb. 20, 2026

Check the weather forecasts, download all the maps on your Garmin, notify people of your plans, pack enough food and water and have emergency supplies at the ready.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 23, 2025

Canned answers to prying questions about career mistakes and bumps in our personal lives must be at the ready the moment the festivities begin.

From Salon • Nov. 23, 2025

When we reached the glass door, Spoon had the key at the ready.

From "Shelter (Book One): A Mickey Bolitar Novel" by Harlan Coben