a preliminary quotation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a preliminary quotation" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is typically used when someone is requesting an estimate or quote for goods or services (i.e. a cost estimate). For example: "We would like to receive a preliminary quotation for the construction of a new office building."

✓ Grammatically correct

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

These offices are usually staffed with very competent sales engineers and able to convert the supplier's wealth of experience into a preliminary quotation quite easily.

Decanter Centrifuge Handbook

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

A preliminary autopsy was inconclusive.

The New York Times

As a preliminary step.

The New York Times

A preliminary study.

Nature

A preliminary report.

Nature

"It's a preliminary investigation.

The New York Times - Science

A Preliminary Discussion.

Stanford University

A preliminary requirements analysis.

Cornell University

A preliminary examination follows.

Columbia University

A preliminary injunction issued.

Cornell University

A Preliminary Estimate.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When requesting or providing a "preliminary quotation", clearly state the assumptions and conditions upon which it is based to avoid future misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid treating a "preliminary quotation" as a fixed agreement. Always clarify that it is subject to change based on a more detailed assessment or updated information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a preliminary quotation" functions as a noun phrase, where 'preliminary' modifies 'quotation'. It describes the type of quotation being provided or requested: an initial, non-binding estimate. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a correct and standard English phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Formal & Business

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a preliminary quotation" is a valid and useful phrase for describing an initial, non-binding cost estimate. While Ludwig examples show it appearing in varied contexts like engineering and news, its primary function is within professional settings for early-stage budget discussions. It's important to emphasize the 'preliminary' nature to avoid confusion with final offers. Related phrases like "initial estimate" and "rough estimate" can be used depending on the desired level of formality. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and can be used in written English, being typically used when someone is requesting an estimate or quote for goods or services.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preliminary cost estimate

Reorders the words while keeping a similar meaning.

initial estimate

Focuses on the estimate aspect, omitting the formal 'quotation' context.

preliminary pricing

Focuses on the pricing aspect, omitting the formal 'quotation' context.

budget quotation

Specifies the quotation is related to budget planning.

rough estimate

Emphasizes the approximation of the estimation.

approximate cost

Highlights the cost aspect while being less formal than 'quotation'.

estimated price range

Provides a range instead of a single quoted price.

indicative price

Uses 'indicative' to soften the commitment compared to a firm quotation.

initial bid

More suitable for situations where formal bidding processes are involved.

ballpark figure

An informal way of referring to an approximate cost.

FAQs

What does "a preliminary quotation" mean?

It refers to an initial estimate of costs for a service or product, provided before a full assessment or final agreement. It's subject to change.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a preliminary quotation"?

Use it when you're providing an initial, non-binding cost estimate, or when you're requesting such an estimate from a service provider.

What are some alternatives to "a preliminary quotation"?

You can use phrases like "initial estimate", "approximate cost", or "rough estimate", depending on the context and level of formality.

How does "a preliminary quotation" differ from a final quotation?

A "preliminary quotation" is subject to change based on further assessment, while a final quotation is a fixed offer that the provider is committed to honor (unless circumstances change significantly).