preliminary
Coming before and preparing for the main part or event; initial.
Examples
In a meeting
“The preliminary results look promising, but we need the full dataset.”
Over coffee
“Let's do a preliminary taste test before we commit to this caterer.”
Why this word
initial
preliminary emphasizes preparation for main action, while initial simply means first
early
preliminary suggests a preparatory phase before the main event, while early refers to timing
introductory
preliminary implies tentative steps requiring follow-up, while introductory focuses on presenting basics
Usage tip
Signals that something is early-stage and subject to change. Good for managing expectations — preliminary data isn't final.
Etymology
Latin praeliminaris — prae (before) + limen (threshold), literally 'before the threshold'
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Related words
streamline
To make a process or system more efficient by simplifying or eliminating unnecessary steps.
facilitate
To make a process or action easier or help it happen.
initiate
To cause a process or action to begin.
replicate
Make an exact copy or repeat a process identically
standardize
Make things uniform or consistent across the board
incubate
Develop ideas or projects gradually through nurturing conditions