preliminary — happening before a more important action or event; introductory
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: happening before a more important action or event; introductory
Pronunciation (IPA): /prɪˈlɪməˌneri/
Example Sentences
- The chef did a preliminary taste test and realized he forgot to add salt to the soup.
- After preliminary negotiations, both companies agreed to meet again next month.
- The preliminary report showed that cats are indeed plotting world domination.
preliminary
ADJECTIVE[/prɪˈlɪməˌneri/]
happening before a more important action or event; introductory
The team held a preliminary meeting before the main project began.
The preliminary inspection happened before the race officially started. (PRE + START = PRELIMINARY → happening before the main start)
The preliminary checks were necessary to get everything ready.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Preliminary derives from Latin 'prae' (before) and 'limen' (threshold), literally meaning 'before the threshold.' The term originally described a preparatory stage that precedes the main action or formal proceeding, much like preparations made at a doorway before entering a building.
Breakdown
prae- (before) + limen (threshold) + -ary (relating to, adjective-forming suffix). The compound 'preliminar-' formed in Latin was later adapted into English with the -ary suffix to denote something preparatory or introductory in nature.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The chef did a preliminary taste test and realized he forgot to add salt to the soup.”
“After preliminary negotiations, both companies agreed to meet again next month.”
“The preliminary report showed that cats are indeed plotting world domination.”
“Students must pass the preliminary exam to qualify for the advanced course.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.