preparar
/pre-pa-RAHR/
to prepare
Preparing gear for an upcoming adventure.
preparar(verb)
to prepare
?to get something ready
to get ready
?general preparation
,to set up
?organizing an event or equipment
📝 In Action
Tengo que preparar mi maleta para el viaje.
A1I have to prepare my suitcase for the trip.
Estamos preparando una fiesta sorpresa.
A2We are preparing a surprise party.
💡 Grammar Points
Using 'para' with Preparar
When you are preparing something FOR a specific purpose or person, use 'para'. Example: 'Preparo la cena para ti' (I prepare dinner for you).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Preparing yourself vs. Preparing things
Mistake: "Saying 'Yo preparo' when you mean 'I am getting ready'."
Correction: Use the reflexive form 'Me preparo' for personal readiness. 'Preparo' is for things like food or bags.
⭐ Usage Tips
The 'Prepare' Form
The word 'prepare' is a special version of this verb used for giving polite commands (¡Prepare usted!) or when talking about wishes and possibilities.
Preparing a healthy meal to eat.
📝 In Action
Mi abuela prepara el mejor café del mundo.
A1My grandmother makes the best coffee in the world.
💡 Grammar Points
Preparar vs. Cocinar
While 'cocinar' specifically means the act of heating food, 'preparar' is used more broadly for making drinks, salads, or any meal assembly.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
present
imperfect
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: preparar
Question 1 of 1
How would you tell a group of people to 'prepare' (polite/formal) for a meeting?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I use 'prepare' instead of 'prepara'?
Use 'prepare' for formal commands (usted) or in 'what if' sentences (subjunctive). Use 'prepara' for informal commands (tú) or when saying 'he/she prepares'.