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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.

Earlier this year, he was granted bail ahead of a preliminary hearing in April.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 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

The South Korean technology company said in preliminary results Tuesday that its operating profit likely reached around 57.200 trillion won, equivalent to $37.91 billion, for the January-March period.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

"We had some solid preliminary information about this operation, including details about the place and possible timing," former senior Hungarian counter-intelligence officer, Peter Buda, told the BBC.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

“The judges will be meeting in the faculty lounge this morning to make the preliminary cut...”

From "Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library" by Chris Grabenstein