preconditions

USAGE SUMMARY

"preconditions" is a perfectly valid and commonly used word in written English.
It is a noun that refers to the things that are necessary for something else to happen. For example, "The preconditions for peace have yet to be met."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He also made some conciliatory remarks regarding the coming national dialogue conference in Yemen, scheduled for November, saying "all participating sides in the dialogue must enter it without preconditions and the dialogue is open to all sides".

The Guardian

If I can't have an impact within two years I've failed Brendan Nelson Nelson cites John Stuart Mill's preconditions for nationhood: the peoples' desire to be governed as one and a common feeling rooted in language, literature and history.

The Guardian

Syrian rebels' intransigence and their unwillingness to attend without preconditions are the main reason for the failure of Geneva so far.

The Guardian - Opinion

The ownership system does not promote engagement and stewardship, preconditions for capitalist growth.

The Guardian - Opinion

Hadi has demanded the Houthis recognise his authority and withdraw from Yemen's main cities – both points demanded by last month's UN security council resolution – as preconditions for talks.

The Guardian

They wanted money because they were on strike; we wanted recognition and acceptance – not that we went with any preconditions, we did not expect anything back".

The Guardian - Film

She argues the preconditions are now there for a positive result, and much of the groundwork is already in place.

The Guardian

Hopes had been raised in Washington that Barack Obama's warm overtures to the Iranian people and the offer of talks without preconditions would break the long-running impasse over uranium enrichment.

The Guardian

Open minds and patient study are two preconditions of successful learning.

The Guardian - Opinion

Among the preconditions are not just economic performance, but better structures of government and more openness.

The Economist

The TTP looks unready to accept minimum preconditions: a ceasefire and recognition of Pakistan's constitution.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "preconditions", clearly define what these conditions are to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "talks failed due to unmet preconditions", specify "talks failed because the rebels didn't lay down their arms and release the hostages, as initially stipulated".

Common error

Avoid listing preferences as "preconditions". "Preconditions" are non-negotiable requirements, not simply desired outcomes. For example, stating "My precondition for the project is that I get a promotion" is incorrect; a more accurate use would be "A precondition for the project's success is adequate funding".

Linguistic Context

The term "preconditions" functions primarily as a noun, denoting the necessary conditions that must exist before a specific action or event can take place. As Ludwig AI states, it describes what is essential for something else to happen. The provided examples show it often used in political and economic contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "preconditions" functions as a noun to express the necessary conditions that must be met before something else can occur. As Ludwig AI states, this word is grammatically correct and commonly used. Its usage is prevalent in contexts like news, business, and science, often in discussions surrounding political negotiations, economic agreements, or scientific research. To ensure effective communication, clearly define what these "preconditions" are and avoid using the term when referring to mere preferences. Alternatives include "essential requirements" and "necessary conditions". By understanding its function, purpose, and common errors, writers can effectively use "preconditions" to articulate essential requirements in various professional and academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

essential requirements

Focuses on the absolutely necessary nature of the requirements.

necessary conditions

Emphasizes the conditions that must be met.

prerequisites

Highlights the prior steps or qualifications needed.

fundamental criteria

Stresses the foundational standards or benchmarks.

basic stipulations

Underscores the agreed-upon terms or demands.

essential groundwork

Focuses on the preparatory actions or foundations required.

mandatory qualifications

Highlights the obligatory qualifications or credentials needed.

imperative demands

Stresses the urgent and non-negotiable nature of the requirements.

required specifications

Focuses on the technical or detailed requirements.

vital elements

Emphasizes the crucial or indispensable parts needed.

FAQs

How to use "preconditions" in a sentence?

You can use "preconditions" to describe the necessary conditions that must be met before an event can occur or an agreement can be made. For example, "The "preconditions for peace" talks include a ceasefire and the release of prisoners."

What can I say instead of "preconditions"?

You can use alternatives like "essential requirements", "necessary conditions", or "prerequisites" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "preconditions" or "prerequisites"?

Both "preconditions" and "prerequisites" refer to things that must be in place beforehand. "Preconditions" often refer to broader requirements or circumstances, while "prerequisites" usually refer to specific prior steps or qualifications.

What's the difference between "conditions" and "preconditions"?

"Conditions" are general terms or stipulations, while "preconditions" are those "requirements" that must be fulfilled before something else can happen or be considered.