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Definitions

preliminary

[pri-lim-uh-ner-ee] / prɪˈlɪm əˌnɛr i /
ADJECTIVE
introductory, initial
Synonyms
STRONGEST
exploratory preparatory prior
STRONG
basic first fundamental opening pilot primary qualifying readying test trial
WEAK
elemental elementary inductive initiatory preceding precursory prefatory preparing primal
Antonyms
STRONG
additional extra secondary
WEAK
closing concluding final
NOUN
introductory event; beginning
Synonyms
STRONG
foundation groundwork initiation introduction opening preamble preface prelims prelude preparation start
WEAK
first round
Antonyms
STRONG
conclusion end ending epilogue finish
WEAK
closing finale

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Lucid also released preliminary first-quarter results Tuesday, which show the company expects revenue of between $280 million and $284 million, and a loss from operations of about $1 billion.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026

The heart failure caused him to suffer acute pulmonary oedema, when fluid builds up in the lungs, the preliminary autopsy confirmed.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

A judge is expected to rule on whether to issue a preliminary injunction later this week.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

"On ceasefire night, hopes were fading, but China stepped in and convinced Iran to agree to a preliminary ceasefire," a senior Pakistani official familiar with the negotiations told AFP on condition of anonymity.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

Unfortunately, he died in 1461, before he could carry out the task, although he had begun a preliminary book summarizing the edition of the Almagest that was available.

From "The Scientists" by John Gribbin

Vocabulary lists containing preliminary

Vocabulary of the Summer Olympics

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Mockingbird

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