verb HSK 3
Traditional 備
to prepare · to provide · to equip · to have in reserve
Meaning
备 means to prepare or make ready for something. It conveys the sense of getting things in order beforehand or having something available for future use. The character appears in many compound words related to preparation, equipment, and readiness.
Usage
备 is commonly used in formal and written contexts, often appearing in compound words rather than alone. It frequently combines with other characters to form words like 准备 (to prepare), 设备 (equipment), and 备用 (for backup use). When used alone, it tends to appear in more formal or literary expressions.
Examples
- 01我们应该常备一些急救药品。.We should always keep some first-aid medicine in reserve.
- 02老师每天都要备课到很晚。.The teacher prepares lessons until very late every day.
Common collocations
- 备用reserve, backup, spare
- 备课to prepare lessons (for teaching)
- 备案to put on record, to file
- 常备to keep in reserve, standing
Origin
The traditional form 備 originally depicted a person with various tools or provisions, suggesting completeness and readiness. The simplified form 备 retains the core meaning of preparation and provision.