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Synonyms

at the ready

Idioms  
  1. Available for immediate use, as in Umbrellas at the ready, we were prepared to brave the storm. This idiom was originally a military term in which the ready denoted the position of a firearm prepared to be raised and aimed or fired. [First half of 1800s]


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.

And if you’re ever hit with a layoff, it’s better to have a sharp profile at the ready than to attempt an emergency makeover.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 18, 2026

Days ahead of the Knicks’ championship-clinching Game 5 victory over the San Antonio Spurs, the alliance was already ordering the 1.25 tons of recycled shredded paper to have at the ready.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 17, 2026

The timing and details of any resolution are unknown, but investors may want to have a list of potential beneficiaries at the ready.

From Barron's • May 30, 2026

First let's have a look at what's around this summer if you want to make a weekend of it; sleeping bag and tent at the ready.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

“I don’t believe it for a minute,” Inigo said, and, holding his sword at the ready, he took the first step down.

From "The Princess Bride" by William Goldman

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