introductorily

Introductorily is a formal adverb meaning in the manner of an introduction or as a preliminary step. It describes speech or writing that prepares listeners or readers for a broader subject, such as introductory remarks at the beginning of a meeting or a brief passage explaining what will follow. Its tone is formal, bookish, and distinctly uncommon in everyday conversation, where introductory or by way of introduction would generally be preferred. The word is most useful when precision matters, particularly in descriptions of speeches, academic writing, presentations, or ceremonial proceedings. Although it resembles the familiar adjective introductory in meaning, introductorily specifically explains how something is done rather than what kind of thing it is. It therefore carries a slightly literary or institutional flavour, suggesting that the introductory material has a deliberate structural role in the wider text or event.

In a manner intended to introduce a subject, discussion, or piece of work; by way of introduction.

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Where does introductorily come from?

The word belongs to a family derived from Latin introducere, meaning to lead or bring in. Latin developed forms including introductor, meaning one who introduces, and introductorius, meaning introductory or serving to introduce. English acquired related forms such as introduce, introduction, and introductory, and introductorily was formed within this family with the adverbial suffix -ly.

How introductorily is actually used

This is a formal and comparatively uncommon adverb. In most contexts, introductory, preliminarily, or by way of introduction will sound more natural.

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