preliminary /pri-limˈi-nə-ri or -in-ri/

1. Introductory
2. Preparatory
3. Preceding or preparing for the main matter

1. An introductory or preparatory measure, activity, statement, etc (often in pl)
2. A preliminary or entrance examination

prelimˈinarily adverb

• quarterlies
• quarterlight
• quarterlights
• quarterly
• quartermaster
• quartermaster-general
• quartermaster-generals
• quartermasters
• quartermaster-sergeant
• quartermaster-sergeants
• quarter-miler
• quarter-milers
• quartermistress
• quartern
• quartern loaf
• quartern loaves
• quarter note
• quarter notes
• quarterns
• quarteroon
• quarteroons
• quarter past
• quarter-plate
• quarter-pound
• quarter-pounder