What does preliminary mean?
“Preliminary” means existing before something more important or definitive, usually as part of a preparation or early stage. It describes preliminary discussions, tests, results, inquiries, and other actions that provide a basis for a later decision or event. The adjective can also indicate that information is provisional: preliminary figures, estimates, or findings may be revised when more evidence becomes available. When used as a noun, “preliminary” usually refers to a preliminary competition, test, or round, and its plural, “preliminaries,” refers to the opening events or stages before a main event. The word is especially common in journalism, legal and business language, academic contexts, and organized sports. Its implication is that the thing described is not yet final, complete, or authoritative.
Existing or happening before a more important event, activity, or decision; introductory, preparatory, or provisional.
"The team advanced to the final after the preliminary round."
Often implies that the matter is not yet final and may be revised.
An event, test, round, or stage that takes place before a main event or decision.
"She qualified for the finals by winning the preliminary."
Usually appears in the plural form “preliminaries” when referring to the stages before a main event.
The plural is standard when referring to preliminary events or stages before a main event, especially in sports and competitions.
"The preliminary competition consists of several heats."
The word “preliminary” literally points to a threshold: it comes from Latin words meaning “before” and “threshold,” describing something that stands before the main event.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does preliminary come from?
“Preliminary” comes from Latin prae-, meaning “before,” and limen or liminis, meaning “threshold.” The underlying idea is therefore “before the threshold,” or existing before the main event. English borrowed the word in the early 17th century from Latin, initially in senses connected with preparation and introductory proceedings. Related English words include “liminal,” “subliminal,” and “eliminate,” which preserve the same Latin root associated with a threshold or boundary.
Related word forms
How preliminary is actually used
“Preliminary” is common in formal and professional contexts, including news, academic writing, sports, and legal proceedings. It often suggests that the information or event is not final and may change.
Easily confused with preliminary
“Preliminary” means occurring before an important event or decision, whereas “preeminent” means outstanding in importance, rank, or quality.
“Preliminary” concerns something that comes before a later stage, while “primitive” describes something that is basic, early, or undeveloped.