BharatNotes Preparedness
noun (abstract, uncountable)Usage in a UPSC answer
India's experience with successive cyclones demonstrates that institutional preparedness — early-warning systems, pre-positioned relief, and well-rehearsed evacuation protocols under the NDMA — saves far more lives than reactive relief disbursed after a disaster strikes.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Word Family
prepare (v), prepared (adj), preparation (n), preparatory (adj), unprepared (adj)
Root
Latin praeparāre = to make ready beforehand; prae- = before; parāre = to make ready; -ness suffix
Etymology
From English prepared + -ness; prepared from Latin praeparāre ("to make ready beforehand"), from prae- ("before") + parāre ("to make ready"); the noun first attested in English in the 1590s.
Memory Hook
Break it down: "PREPARED + ness" — from Latin prae- ('before') + parare ('to make ready'). Picture an army made ready BEFORE the battle: to be prepared is to have done your readying in advance.
Seen in UPSC Question Papers
- Prelims 2023 — Disaster Management
- Prelims 2022 — Disaster Management
- Mains 2023 · GS1 · 15 marks — Geography
- Mains 2019 · GS3 · 15 marks — Disaster Management
- Mains 2017 · GS3 · 15 marks — Disaster Management
- Mains 2016 · GS3 · 12.5 marks — Disaster Management / Environment
Real UPSC previous-year questions whose text uses “Preparedness” — proof this word earns its place on your list.
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