is preliminary

USAGE SUMMARY

"is preliminary" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is introductory or preliminary in nature, meaning that it comes before a more detailed or final version. Example: The findings of this study are only preliminary and further research is needed to confirm these results.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But vetting is preliminary.

The New York Times

The deal is preliminary.

The New Yorker

This list is preliminary.

Stanford University

This is preliminary," De Blasio said.

The Guardian

What we did with Pearl is preliminary.

The New York Times

He added: "The investigation is preliminary.

The New York Times

The study is preliminary, Staas emphasized, with no available data.

The New York Times - Sports

While his proposal is preliminary, some Republicans applauded it.

The New York Times

This schedule and syllabus is preliminary and subject to change.

Princeton University

There is preliminary support for exposure map files.

Harvard University

This page is preliminary in every sense of the word.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is preliminary", ensure you clarify what the final or more detailed version will entail and when it might be available. This manages expectations and provides context for the initial information.

Common error

Avoid presenting preliminary data as conclusive evidence. Clearly state that the findings are not final and are subject to further investigation to prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is preliminary" functions as a linking verb followed by an adjective, describing the state or condition of a noun. It indicates that something is in an initial stage and not yet complete or definitive. Ludwig AI confirms this usage pattern.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

32%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is preliminary" is a versatile expression used to indicate that information is not yet final and is subject to change. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely employed across various contexts, notably in news, academic research, and scientific reports. The phrase serves to manage expectations and clarify that the information presented represents an initial assessment rather than a definitive conclusion. When using this phrase, ensure you specify what further developments are anticipated to avoid any misunderstanding. Alternatives like "is initial" or "is tentative" offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is initial

Focuses on the beginning stage of something.

is tentative

Emphasizes the uncertainty and potential for change.

is provisional

Highlights the temporary nature of the information.

is introductory

Stresses the role of providing an introduction.

is preparatory

Indicates something is done in preparation for something else.

is subject to change

Directly points out the possibility of modifications.

is not yet final

Clarifies that the information is not in its conclusive form.

is a first look

Highlights the early stage of an analysis or review.

remains to be seen

Implies that the final outcome or confirmation is pending.

is still in development

Emphasizes the ongoing process of creation or refinement.

FAQs

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

You can use "is preliminary" to indicate that some information, results, or findings are not yet final or complete. For example, "The report "is preliminary" and will be updated next month".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "is preliminary"?

Some alternatives include "is initial", "is tentative", or "is provisional", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "are preliminary" instead of "is preliminary"?

The correct form depends on what you are describing. Use "is preliminary" with singular nouns (e.g., "The report is preliminary"), and "are preliminary" with plural nouns (e.g., "The results are preliminary").

When should I use "is preliminary" versus "is final"?

"Is preliminary" should be used when the information is still subject to change or further refinement, while "is final" should be used when the information is confirmed and complete. Using them correctly ensures clarity and avoids misleading the audience.