Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for preparatory.
Definitions

preparatory

[pri-par-uh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee, -pair-, prep-er-uh-] / prɪˈpær əˌtɔr i, -ˌtoʊr i, -ˈpɛər-, ˈprɛp ər ə- /
ADJECTIVE
introductory, basic
Synonyms
STRONGEST
preliminary previous
WEAK
before elementary in advance of in anticipation of inductive opening precautionary prefatory prelusive prep preparative primary prior to
Antonyms
WEAK
auxiliary supplementary

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.

The initial discussions will be preparatory, setting guidelines for more formal cease-fire talks, these officials said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

The grouping added they welcomed "the commitment of nations who are engaging in preparatory planning" but provided no further details.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

Nkanu Adichie-Esege, one of twins, died on 7 January after complications arose during preparatory medical procedures at Euracare Hospital in Lagos.

From BBC • Mar. 4, 2026

And rather than making use of preparatory sketches, Titian painted alla prima—going straight to work on the blank surface.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 30, 2026

“We usually don’t fit them with a preparatory prosthesis for about six months.”

From "The Running Dream" by Wendelin Van Draanen

Vocabulary lists containing preparatory

Florida's B.E.S.T. Common Prefixes: pre-

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!