is preparing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is preparing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone or something is in the process of getting ready for a specific event or task. Example: "She is preparing for her final exams by studying every night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He is preparing her escape.

The Economist

Morris is preparing for that.

The New Yorker

"Everyone is preparing," he said.

The New Yorker

"But everyone is preparing".

The New Yorker

The EU is preparing".

The Guardian

Shuler is preparing to depart Washington.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr Wen is preparing for the worst.

The Economist

Meanwhile, he is preparing an appeal.

The New York Times

"He is preparing Russians for something else.

The New York Times

Another is preparing to go to Israel.

The New York Times

IATA is preparing for the worst.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is preparing" to indicate a current action focused on a future event or goal. For example, "The team is preparing for the upcoming competition" clearly conveys ongoing efforts towards a specific objective.

Common error

Avoid using "is preparing" without a clear indication of what is being prepared for. Saying "He is preparing" lacks context. Always specify the target: "He is preparing a presentation".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is preparing" functions as a present continuous verb phrase, indicating an action that is currently in progress. Ludwig shows it is used to describe ongoing efforts or arrangements being made for a future event or task. It emphasizes the dynamic nature of the preparation process.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

93%

Science

3%

Academia

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is preparing" is a versatile and common verb phrase used to describe ongoing preparation for a future event or task. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, its formality can shift depending on the source. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is being prepared for. For alternative phrasing, consider "is getting ready" or "is making arrangements" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is getting ready

Emphasizes the process of becoming ready, often implying a more general sense of preparation.

is making arrangements

Focuses on the logistical aspects of preparation, such as planning and organizing.

is gearing up

Suggests an energetic and proactive approach to preparing for something challenging or significant.

is arranging

Similar to "is making arrangements" but can also imply a more formal or structured preparation.

is setting up

Highlights the act of establishing or configuring something in preparation for use.

is planning

Focuses on the mental process of devising a strategy or course of action in preparation.

is making provisions

Emphasizes the act of supplying or equipping oneself with what is needed in advance.

is anticipating

Focuses on expecting and preparing for something that is likely to happen.

is bracing for

Suggests preparing oneself for something unpleasant or difficult.

is laying the groundwork

Highlights the act of establishing a foundation or preliminary steps in preparation for a larger project.

FAQs

How can I use "is preparing" in a sentence?

Use "is preparing" to describe an ongoing action of getting ready for something in the future. For example, "The chef "is preparing a delicious meal"" or "The student "is preparing for the exam"".

What are some alternatives to "is preparing"?

You can use alternatives like "is getting ready", "is making arrangements", or "is gearing up", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "is preparing for" or "is preparing to"?

Both "is preparing for" and "is preparing to" are grammatically correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Is preparing for" is followed by a noun or gerund, while "is preparing to" is followed by a verb. For example, "She "is preparing for the trip"" and "She "is preparing to leave"".

What's the difference between "is preparing" and "will prepare"?

"Is preparing" indicates a present continuous action, meaning the preparation is currently underway. "Will prepare" indicates a future action, meaning the preparation will occur at some point in the future. For instance, "He "is preparing dinner" now" versus "He "will prepare dinner later"".