in a state of readiness

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a state of readiness" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a condition where someone or something is prepared and ready for action or a specific task. Example: "The emergency response team is always in a state of readiness to handle any crisis that may arise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

You are ready to act but are also open and in a state of readiness to react appropriately when needed.

Forbes

Being in a state of readiness is key to how your working day will play out.

The Guardian

For months, they lived in a state of readiness for prospective buyers.

The New York Times

Be in a state of readiness, not a state of fear is perhaps a better way to put it.

The New York Times - Magazine

Stuart Jeffries' episode nine blogpost is here There's a naval standoff between China and Japan and the US 7th fleet is in a state of readiness off Guam.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This should cause control-related frontal circuits to remain in a state of readiness, effectively decreasing the burden of "switching on" control16.

Nature

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

The first report, published in September, is now under question because of its central assertion that Iraq's chemical and biological weapons were in such a state of readiness that they could be launched within 45 minutes.

The New York Times

An earlier report, published in September, is now under review by two parliamentary committees because of doubts raised about its central claim: that Iraq's chemical and biological weapons were in such a state of readiness that they could be launched within 45 minutes.

The New York Times

Activation can be viewed as a state of readiness in selectively targeting possible outcomes of behaviour: The monitoring of input, endogenous interactions and feedback are involved.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

Meanwhile, Daniel's every waking moment is spent in a state of concupiscent readiness should a passing woman need rogering.

The Guardian - Books

Meanwhile, up in Washington Heights, Andy Linares, of Bug Off, is ensconced in a storefront on St . Nicholas Avenue in a state of acute readiness.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, consider the specific context. Is it military readiness, business preparedness, or personal readiness? Tailor your subsequent language to reflect the specific type of readiness.

Common error

Avoid using "in a state of readiness" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "ready" or "prepared" are often more appropriate. For example, instead of saying "I am in a state of readiness for the party", say "I am ready for the party".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a state of readiness" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It indicates a condition or situation of being prepared and available for action. This is consistent with Ludwig's analysis and examples, showing its role in describing preparedness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

24%

Science

21%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in a state of readiness" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that describes a condition of preparedness. As Ludwig highlights, it's frequently found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal tone. While versatile, it's important to consider simpler alternatives like "ready" or "prepared" in informal settings. The phrase conveys anticipation and proactive preparation, emphasizing an ongoing state rather than a one-time event.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prepared for action

Focuses on the proactive preparation aspect.

ready to act

Emphasizes the immediacy of potential action.

at the ready

Suggests immediate availability and preparedness.

in preparedness

Highlights the condition of being prepared.

standing by

Indicates a waiting status with readiness to respond.

on standby

Similar to "standing by", but slightly more informal.

primed and ready

Emphasizes being fully prepared and eager.

geared up

Focuses on the equipment or resources being prepared.

battle-ready

Specifically suggests readiness for conflict or intense competition.

all set

Indicates that all necessary preparations have been completed.

FAQs

How can I use "in a state of readiness" in a sentence?

This phrase describes being fully prepared for action. For example, "The troops were "prepared for action" in case of an attack" or "The company kept its resources "at the ready" for any market changes".

What are some alternatives to "in a state of readiness"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as ""prepared for action"", "ready to act", or ""at the ready"" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "in a state of readiness" formal or informal?

It leans towards formal and professional contexts. In casual conversations, simpler terms like "ready" or "prepared" might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "in a state of readiness" and "prepared"?

"In a state of readiness" suggests a continuous or ongoing condition of preparedness, while "prepared" can imply a one-time or completed action of getting ready. "The team is "prepared for action"" (one time) versus "The team is always in a state of readiness" (ongoing).