preliminaryadjective [ before noun ]
uk/prɪˈlɪm.ɪ.nər.i/us/prɪˈlɪm.ə.ner.i/C1 coming before a more important action or event, especially introducing or preparing for it:
Preliminary results show that the vaccine is effective, but this has to be confirmed by further medical trials.
We've decided to change the design based on our preliminary findings.
More examples
- The preliminary results are very positive.
- Our preliminary findings suggest an increased risk for those aged over 60.
- Jackson is peforming well in the preliminary stages of the competition.
- The two officials will be meeting today in order to establish a preliminary agreement.
- I'd like to make a few preliminary remarks before we begin the discussion.
Thesaurus: synonyms and related words
Preceding and introducing
- announce
- antedate
- beat
- build-up
- countdown
- curtain-raiser
- emcee
- forerunner
- introduce
- introduction
- introductory
- lead 1
- lead up to sth
- lead-in
- preamble
- predate 1
- predecessor
- preface
- prelude
- usher
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preliminarynoun [ C usually plural ]
uk/prɪˈlɪm.ɪ.nər.i/us/prɪˈlɪm.ə.ner.i/an event or action that introduces or prepares for something else:
After a few polite preliminaries (= introductions), we stated our main ideas and intentions.
The French team finished first in the competition preliminaries (= the first part of the competition).
Thesaurus: synonyms and related words
Preceding and introducing
- announce
- antedate
- beat
- build-up
- countdown
- curtain-raiser
- emcee
- forerunner
- introduce
- introduction
- introductory
- lead 1
- lead up to sth
- lead-in
- preamble
- predate 1
- predecessor
- preface
- prelude
- usher
See more results »