a preliminary one

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a preliminary one" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is initial or introductory in nature, often before a more detailed or final version is presented. Example: "This report is a preliminary one, and further analysis will be conducted in the coming weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

The libel trial, conducted over eight days in the royal court of justice, was a preliminary one to decide on what happened at the gate.

The Guardian

This is just one investigation, and a preliminary one at that.

BBC

This command will give you a speedup, but that is not the speedup that your grade is based on, it is only a preliminary one.

University of California, Berkeley

The step today was a preliminary one that will enable Mr. Blunkett to introduce wide-ranging antiterror legislation on Tuesday that Britain hopes to rush through Parliament by year's end.

The New York Times

Therefore, our conclusion regarding extracted components is a preliminary one and further work is needed to come up with a definite conclusion on this mechanism.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

The Michigan report is a preliminary one.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

UNICEF Marks 2005 as Unprecedented 'Year of Emergencies' NEW YORK, 29 November 2005 – Issuing a preliminary one-year update on its recovery efforts in the tsunami zone, UNICEF said today that 2005 has been an unprecedented year of emergencies for children, with an extraordinary series of natural disasters, food crises, and conflicts tearing at the fabric of life for tens of millions of people.

Unicef

The inquiry, which follows a preliminary one-month review, echoes similar concerns in the United States, where the companies face their main regulatory hurdles.

The New York Times

Eight teams were invited to compete in a preliminary one-day pair event and the main three-day team tournament, a round robin of 20-board matches, with total prize money of $200,000.

The New York Times

Madison Bumgarner, the San Francisco mortician, shut out the Kansas City Royals on Sunday night, picking up his second win of this World Series and his fourth this fall, beginning with his numbing 8-0 clampdofn of the Pirates in a preliminary one-game wild-card elimination.

The New Yorker

For the calculations of the initial hypocenters, we used a preliminary one-dimensional (1D) velocity model developed for the Pamir (Mechie et al. 2012).

Earth, Planets and Space

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a preliminary one", ensure the context clearly indicates that a subsequent, more detailed or final version will follow. This helps manage expectations and avoid misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid using "a preliminary one" without explicitly stating what further steps or investigations will follow. Failing to do so can leave readers uncertain about the completeness or reliability of the information presented.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a preliminary one" functions as a noun phrase where "preliminary" modifies "one", indicating that the subject is an initial or introductory version of something. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is grammatically sound and used across reputable sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

33%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Unknown

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a preliminary one" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe an initial or introductory version of something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's suitable for various contexts, including news, science, academia, and business. When using this phrase, ensure that the context makes it clear that further developments or versions are expected. While versatile, consider alternatives like "an initial version" or "a draft copy" for subtle differences in emphasis. Remember to avoid assuming that your audience inherently understands that something is "preliminary" without explicitly stating what subsequent steps will follow.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an initial version

Focuses on the aspect of being the first version or iteration.

a draft copy

Emphasizes the unfinished and subject-to-change nature of the item.

a trial run

Highlights the aspect of testing or experimentation before a final decision.

a pilot study

Specifically refers to a small-scale study conducted to test feasibility.

an exploratory investigation

Emphasizes the aspect of seeking information and exploring possibilities.

a working model

Suggests a functional but not yet perfected prototype.

a provisional assessment

Implies a temporary or conditional evaluation.

a rough estimate

Focuses on the approximate and potentially inaccurate nature of the calculation.

a starting point

Highlights the beginning or initial stage of a process.

a first step

Emphasizes the sequential nature of actions, highlighting this as the initial action.

FAQs

How can I use "a preliminary one" in a sentence?

You can use "a preliminary one" to describe an initial version of something, such as "The study is "a preliminary one", and further research is needed."

What can I say instead of "a preliminary one"?

Alternatives include "an initial version", "a draft copy", or "a pilot study", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "a preliminary one" or "a final one"?

"A preliminary one" refers to an initial version, while "a final one" refers to the completed version. They are used at different stages of a process.

What's the difference between "a preliminary one" and "a tentative one"?

"A preliminary one" suggests something is in an early stage of development, whereas "a tentative one" implies uncertainty or a lack of commitment.