Preliminary

In layman's terms - the first version of something

Preliminary Meaning & Definition

Preliminary means "before the main thing." It is a step or first version before the real thing happens. For example, a preliminary exam is a test you take before the main exam, or a preliminary design is a first draft of a plan before the final version is made.

Preliminary Used in a Sentence

1. The athlete completed the preliminary rounds and advanced to the final competition.
2. The chef prepared a preliminary menu for the dinner party to get approval from the host.
3. The detective conducted a preliminary interview with the witnesses before launching a full investigation.
4. The architect presented a preliminary sketch of the building design before creating the final blueprints.

Preliminary Similar Words & Phrases (Synonyms)

1. Initial
2. Introductory
3. Preparatory
4. Pre-eminent
5. Preface

Preliminary Opposite Words & Phrases (Antonyms)

1. Final
2. Conclusive
3. Definitive
4. Complete
5. Ultimate