pre-installed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pre-installed" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe software or applications that are already installed on a device before it is sold or used by the end user. Example: "The new laptop comes with several pre-installed applications that enhance productivity right out of the box."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It even comes with the new U2 album pre-installed.

The Guardian - Tech

Several apps, including games like "Angry Birds," come pre-installed.

The New York Times

First, there's the Windows 8 sold to consumers pre-installed as part of a package deal.

The Guardian - Tech

Microsoft's Office, Skype and OneDrive apps come pre-installed, which can be disabled but not uninstalled.

The Guardian - Tech

A Navigon satnav and AVG antivirus app come pre-installed but can be deleted.

The Guardian - Tech

A variety of Facebook and Microsoft apps come pre-installed, but can be disabled.

The Guardian - Tech

Apple had recently launched Health, a fitness app pre-installed on new iPhones.

The New Yorker

Why should itch be, as it were, pre-installed and so neatly differentiated from pain?

The New Yorker

One minor change to the bundle is in the addition of pre-installed software.

The New York Times

The new computers they buy as replacements may well come with Windows 8 pre-installed.

The Economist

The app used to come pre-installed on Samsung phones, but that deal ended recently.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing optional features, clearly differentiate between what comes "pre-installed" and what requires separate installation or purchase.

Common error

Avoid assuming that because a device is compatible with certain software, that software is "pre-installed". Compatibility means it can be installed, while "pre-installed" means it's already there.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pre-installed" functions as an adjective, modifying a noun to indicate that something (typically software or an application) is installed on a device or system before it's sold or delivered to the end user. Ludwig's examples show it describing software, apps, and even a SIM card.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pre-installed" is a common and grammatically correct adjective, primarily used to describe software or features that come already installed on a device. According to Ludwig, it's prevalent in news and media, with some presence in scientific contexts. The term is most effectively used to convey convenience and immediate usability. When writing, ensure you distinguish "pre-installed" from simply being compatible, and remember that "pre-installed" software might not always be removable. Considering its wide usage and clear meaning, "pre-installed" is a reliable choice for technical and general communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Pre-loaded

Specifically refers to software that is already loaded on a device.

Built-in

Refers to features or components that are integrated into a product during manufacturing.

Factory-installed

Highlights that the installation occurred at the manufacturing facility.

Integrated

Emphasizes the incorporation of a feature or component.

Embedded

Suggests the item is deeply set within the system.

Bundled

Indicates that something is included as part of a package.

Comes standard

Implies a feature is included in the base model without additional cost.

Standard equipment

Denotes items that are regularly included with a product.

Out-of-the-box

Highlights functionality available immediately after purchase.

Pre-set

Describes settings or configurations already applied.

FAQs

What does "pre-installed" mean in the context of software?

When software is described as "pre-installed", it means it's already installed on a device when you purchase it, so it's ready to use without any additional setup.

What's the difference between "pre-installed" and "factory-installed"?

"Pre-installed" and "factory-installed" are often used interchangeably, both meaning that something was installed during the manufacturing process. However, "pre-installed" might sometimes refer to software added by a retailer before sale.

Why is having software "pre-installed" beneficial?

Having software "pre-installed" saves time and effort, as you don't need to download and install it yourself. It also ensures immediate access to certain features or applications.

Can I remove "pre-installed" software if I don't need it?

Whether you can remove "pre-installed" software varies. Some can be uninstalled completely, others can only be disabled, and some are essential to the system and cannot be removed.