This is the 752nd most frequent Portuguese word.
preparar
To prepare.
Here, "prepara" is reflexive, indicating the subject is preparing themselves for an event or occasion.
Ela se prepara para a apresentação com cuidado.
She prepares herself carefully for the presentation.
In this context, "preparando" signifies making arrangements or setting up, specifically in physical terms, to ensure readiness for an upcoming occasion.
Eles estavam preparando o terreno para o evento.
They were preparing the grounds for the event.
In this sentence, "preparar" is used in the sense of making or assembling, as in the preparation of food or other items for consumption or use.