Initial meeting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Initial meeting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the first meeting or gathering of individuals, often in a professional or formal context. Example: "During the initial meeting, we discussed the project's objectives and timelines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Initial meeting.

Cornell University

Initial Meeting: If a child is eligible and as availability permits, an initial meeting is scheduled with parents or caregivers.

Columbia University

Three days after their initial meeting, Fox emailed Close to arrange a time to meet.

Huffington Post

Street also recalls their initial meeting.

The New York Times - Sports

The initial meeting is casual enough.

The New York Times

After yesterday's initial meeting, both sides expressed optimism.

The New York Times

"The initial meeting left a strong impression on me.

The New Yorker

An initial meeting is scheduled for next week, she said.

The New York Times

The initial meeting of Bill and Hillary is rather sweet.

The New York Times

The initial meeting was described as a legitimate business deal.

The New Yorker

Days after the initial meeting, Justin called, sounding terribly upset.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal contexts, use "Initial meeting" to denote the commencement of discussions or projects.

Common error

Avoid referring to subsequent gatherings as the "Initial meeting". Ensure the term is reserved exclusively for the very first encounter.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Initial meeting" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As confirmed by Ludwig, it denotes the first formal or informal gathering of individuals for a specific purpose.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

8%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "Initial meeting" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that refers to the first gathering of individuals for a particular purpose. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's versatile enough for various contexts, ranging from news reports and academic discussions to formal business settings. While it's generally neutral to professional, alternative phrases like "introductory session" or "first encounter" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context. Remember to reserve this term exclusively for the first encounter and clearly define the agenda for an effective "Initial meeting".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Initial consultation

Similar to "Initial meeting", but emphasizes a professional or advisory setting. Makes the sentence more professional

Kick-off meeting

A more informal way to describe the start of a project or initiative, injecting a sense of energy and enthusiasm. This change the tone of the sentence

First encounter

Emphasizes the aspect of encountering someone or something for the first time. This change the focus from the business or formal context to the meeting itself

Introductory session

Highlights the purpose of the meeting as an introduction to a topic or group. Using session instead of meeting makes the context more professional

Preliminary discussion

Focuses on the discussion aspect of the meeting, suggesting it's a precursor to more in-depth conversations. Changes the term meeting to discussion

Opening consultation

Implies a more formal and advisory context, where expert advice is sought. Makes the sentence more formal.

First appointment

Suitable for medical or professional service contexts, referring to the first scheduled visit. This change the meaning to a more specific context.

Inaugural conference

Suggests a larger, more structured event, like the beginning of a series of conferences. Makes the sentence more formal

Maiden session

A more formal and slightly archaic way to describe the first session or meeting. Using session instead of meeting makes the context more professional

Opening remarks

Focuses on the introductory speech or comments at the beginning of a meeting or event. Makes the sentence more specific to the meeting

FAQs

How can I use "Initial meeting" in a sentence?

You can say, "The agenda for the "initial meeting" includes a project overview and introductions." or "During the "initial meeting", we established clear goals.".

What's a more formal alternative to "Initial meeting"?

In formal settings, consider using "introductory session" or "preliminary discussion" to convey a similar meaning with a heightened level of professionalism.

Is it okay to use "Initial meeting" in casual conversation?

Yes, "Initial meeting" is versatile enough for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very casual settings, consider using "first encounter" if the tone fits.

How does "Initial meeting" differ from "Follow-up meeting"?

The "Initial meeting" is the very first time a group or individuals come together to discuss something. A "Follow-up meeting" is any subsequent meeting that builds upon the discussions from the initial encounter.