1.
reserve; spare
Something kept in case of need; a backup or extra supply.
予備の電池を持っている。
I have spare batteries.
予備のタイヤを車に積んでいる。
I have a spare tire in the car.
万が一に備えて、予備の食料を用意しておいた。
I prepared reserve food supplies just in case.
2.
preliminary; preparatory
Done in preparation for something more important or final.
予備校に通っている。
I am attending a prep school.
予備選挙で候補者が決まる。
Candidates are decided in the primary election.
予備知識がないと、この講義は難しいかもしれない。
Without background knowledge, this lecture might be difficult.
USAGE: Used as both a noun and の-adjective to indicate something extra, in reserve, or preliminary.
COMMON COMPOUNDS:
- 予備校 (prep school, cram school for university entrance)
- 予備選挙 (primary election)
- 予備軍 (reserve forces)
- 予備費 (reserve fund)
- 予備知識 (background knowledge)
- 予備日 (alternative date)
USAGE PATTERN:
- 予備の + noun (spare X, reserve X)
- 予備 + noun (preparatory X)