as a prelude

USAGE SUMMARY

"as a prelude" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to introduce or preface something that will happen or be discussed later. Example: "As a prelude to our meeting, I would like to briefly discuss the goals we hope to achieve today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Said as a prelude to destroying them.

The New Yorker

One partner may see this as a prelude to marriage.

The Economist

Orders often serve as a prelude to investment.

The Economist

Goetz interpreted the inquiry as a prelude to a mugging.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Honours degrees were intended as a prelude to research.

The Guardian

This gamesmanship is meant as a prelude to hospitality?

The New York Times - Magazine

Russia says that Georgia fired first and is reinforcing its forces as a prelude to war.

The Economist

Blackstone had been examining Dell's books as a prelude to making a possible final bid.

The New York Times

This piece served as a prelude for Mr. Lachenmann's stunning "Mouvement ( — vor der Erstarrung").

The New York Times - Arts

It dispenses moral lessons as a prelude to reading the Bible.

The New York Times - Books

Once again, it is dithering, abjectly, as a prelude, quite probably, to doing the wrong thing.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a prelude" to smoothly introduce a topic, event, or action that sets the stage for something more significant. It helps create anticipation and context for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "as a prelude" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "first", "before", or "to start with" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a prelude" functions as an introductory prepositional phrase. It sets the stage for what follows, indicating that something is about to begin or be presented, aligning with Ludwig's analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

30%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a prelude" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to introduce or preface something that follows. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to set the stage or provide context. While versatile, it tends to be more appropriate in neutral to formal settings like news articles, scientific papers, or structured discussions. When writing, ensure that the subsequent content directly relates to what is being introduced. While there are many alternatives to "as a prelude", choosing the most fitting one depends on maintaining your desired tone and level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a preliminary

Highlights the initial or preparatory nature of the action.

to preface

Focuses on the act of providing a preface or introductory remarks.

as an introduction

Focuses more on the act of introducing rather than setting the stage.

serving as a lead-in

More descriptive, emphasizing the connection to what follows.

in preparation for

Highlights the preparation aspect for a future event.

by way of introduction

More formal and explicit about the intent to introduce.

as an opening

Emphasizes the beginning or start of something.

to begin with

A more direct and informal way to start a sequence.

as an overture

Often used in a more artistic or formal context.

as a groundwork

Suggests laying a foundation for something more substantial.

FAQs

How can I use "as a prelude" in a sentence?

Use "as a prelude" to introduce something that comes before a main event or discussion. For example: "As a prelude to the concert, the orchestra tuned their instruments".

What are some alternatives to "as a prelude"?

You can use alternatives like "as an introduction", "as a preliminary", or "by way of introduction" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "as a prelude" and "as a preface"?

"As a prelude" generally refers to something that sets the stage for a subsequent event or action, while "as a preface" specifically introduces a written work or discussion, providing background or context.

Is "as a prelude" formal or informal?

"As a prelude" tends to be more formal. In informal contexts, consider using simpler alternatives like "before" or "to begin with".