a preparative step

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a preparative step" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an action or procedure that is taken in advance to prepare for a subsequent process or event. Example: "Before we begin the experiment, we need to complete a preparative step to ensure all materials are ready."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

We propose that this capacitation driven membrane docking and stability thereof is a preparative step prior to the multipoint membrane fusions characteristic for the acrosome reaction induced by sperm-zona binding.

Plosone

Therefore, to be effective, a preparative step is necessary to remove the majority of PrPC prior to analysis.

Acta neuropathologica communications

Thus it is vital that cold-tolerant molybdenum-reducing microbes are isolated from polar regions as a preparative step for future bioremediation works.

BioMed Research International

The concomitant decrease in transcripts encoding GLP and XET suggests a cell wall softening which may be a preparative step for intensive transport mechanisms observed in mature mutualistic associations.

BMC Plant Biology

In practice, for CDI to efficiently detect PrPSc a preparative step, such as NaPTA precipitation, mild proteolysis (≤2.5 μg/ml PK) or centrifugal concentration is usually necessary, in order to remove PrPC [ 12- 14].

Acta neuropathologica communications

The loss of these adhesion factors causes loosening of cell cell connections and is a preparative step for the following perfusion with collagenase, which is applied to digest collagen in the ECM and to disperse the liver cells.

Archives of Toxicology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Additionally, this tool could be used as a powerful preparative step for other traditional modes of characterization.

The Analyst

To this end, DNA was enzymatically hydrolyzed to 2′-deoxyribonucleosides and dUrd was purified in a preparative HPLC step and analyzed by LC/MS/MS.

DNA Repair

Size exclusion chromatography using a Superdex 75 10∕300 (GE Healthcare) column pre-equilibrated with 20 mM Tris; pH 7.8, 150 ml NaCl and operated with a flow-rate of 0.5 ml/min provided the final preparative step.

Biochimica et Biophysica Acta - General Subjects

eluent and injected directly into the chromatograph without any other preparative step.

Polymer

The number of ammonia sites changed after each preparative step: acidic pretreatment, pillaring and the formation of carbon deposits.

Catalysis Today

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a preparative step", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being prepared for. Providing context ensures clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a preparative step" in everyday conversation or informal writing. It is more appropriate for technical or scientific contexts. Use more common alternatives like "initial step" in general writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a preparative step" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or an object of a preposition. Ludwig's AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness. It identifies a specific action taken to get ready for a subsequent procedure, as shown in the provided examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

100%

Less common in

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a preparative step" is a grammatically correct noun phrase primarily used in scientific and technical contexts. It denotes an action or procedure undertaken to prepare for a subsequent process. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is well-formed and usable in written English. While the phrase is uncommon in everyday language, its usage is consistent and precise within its specific domain. Alternative phrases such as "a preliminary measure" or "a preparatory action" can be used in broader contexts to convey a similar meaning. When using "a preparative step", ensure that the context clearly defines what is being prepared for to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preparatory action

Substitutes "step" with "action", which emphasizes the active nature of the preparation.

a preliminary measure

Replaces "step" with "measure", suggesting a broader action taken in preparation.

a setup phase

Highlights the act of setting up or arranging things in advance.

an initial stage

Focuses on the temporal aspect, highlighting that it's the beginning phase.

an introductory procedure

Replaces "step" with "procedure", implying a formal series of actions.

a groundwork phase

Emphasizes laying the foundation for subsequent activities.

a lead-in activity

Indicates an activity that precedes and introduces a main event.

a starting point

Highlights that it is the point where something begins.

a precursory movement

Implies something that comes before and indicates the approach of something else.

a paving the way phase

This metaphor implies clearing obstacles and preparing for what comes next.

FAQs

How is "a preparative step" typically used in scientific writing?

In scientific writing, "a preparative step" commonly refers to an action or procedure that prepares a sample or experiment for further analysis or processing. It often involves techniques like purification or pre-treatment.

What are some synonyms for "a preparative step" that I can use in different contexts?

Depending on the context, you can use synonyms like "a preliminary measure", "a preparatory action", or "an initial stage" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "a preparative step" appropriate for informal communication?

While grammatically correct, "a preparative step" is more suited for formal or technical writing. In informal communication, simpler alternatives like "initial step" or "preliminary action" are often more appropriate.

What's the difference between "a preparative step" and "a preparatory step"?

Both "a preparative step" and "a preparatory step" are related to the idea of preparing for something. "Preparative" is typically associated with something that actively prepares or makes ready, while "preparatory" describes something that serves to prepare. Both are largely interchangeable.