What does preparatorily mean?
Preparatorily means in advance of something, usually to indicate that a preliminary review, discussion, or other step will occur before the main event. The word is especially common in formal, legal, institutional, and technical writing, where it describes actions that prepare for a later decision, hearing, publication, or proceeding. For example, evidence may be examined preparatorily before a trial, or an agreement may be discussed preparatorily before it is finalized. Although it resembles the everyday word “beforehand,” “preparatorily” is more precise and somewhat more ceremonious, suggesting an organized preliminary stage rather than merely mentioning that something happens early. It is appropriate when the order of events and the preparatory purpose of an action matter. In casual conversation, speakers will usually prefer “in advance” or “beforehand.”
adverbIn advance of an event or action, as a preliminary step. Chiefly used in formal, technical, or legal contexts.
- In advance; beforehand, especially as a preliminary to a main event or action.
"The documents were reviewed preparatorily before the final hearing."
"The venue was inspected preparatorily to ensure that it met safety requirements."
"These findings were presented preparatorily, allowing the committee to discuss them before the formal vote."
“Preparatorily” is the formal way to say “beforehand,” often used when preliminary preparations precede a more important event.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does preparatorily come from?
“Preparatorily” was formed in English by adding the adverbial suffix “-ly” to “preparatory.” Its underlying vocabulary comes ultimately from Latin praeparare, combining prae- “before” and parare “to prepare or arrange.” The Latin adjective praeparatorius, meaning “serving to prepare,” also underlies related English forms such as “preparation” and “preparator.”
How preparatorily is actually used
This is a formal adverb and is less common in everyday speech than “in advance” or “beforehand.” It is especially frequent in legal, institutional, and technical contexts.
Easily confused with preparatorily
Both words mean in advance, but “preparatorily” is the standard modern form, whereas “preparatively” is less common.