preliminary discussion

USAGE SUMMARY

"preliminary discussion" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to an initial or introductory conversation or exchange of ideas before a decision or more in-depth discussion takes place. Example: The team had a preliminary discussion about the project before diving into the details of their plan.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Preliminary discussion sounds like a long shot though".

The Guardian

"We had a good preliminary discussion," she recalled Monday.

The New York Times

By contrast, in preliminary discussion, Khrushchev had said: "Stalin destroyed the party.

The Guardian

Israel has since agreed to allow preliminary discussion of core issues in the indirect talks.

The New York Times

"For that project, the preliminary discussion and studies phase was decades long," he said.

The New York Times

See also computer: Von Neumann's "Preliminary Discussion" and BTW: Computer patent wars.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A week later, Sokol calls Hambrick and has a preliminary discussion about a possible deal.

The New York Times

By the nature of their talks -- with player representatives and agents -- word of their preliminary discussion escaped the office walls.

The New York Times - Sports

The bookseller "has had a preliminary discussion with Permira seeking clarification of its proposal," W.H. Smith's statement said.

The New York Times

A Newsday spokesman said only one preliminary discussion had been held on such an effort in New York.

The New York Times

Another phrase used by Bradley in his preliminary discussion of metaphysics is "the study of first principles," or ultimate, irrefutable truths.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "preliminary discussion" to set expectations that the topic is being introduced but not finalized. It suggests further conversations will follow.

Common error

Avoid treating a "preliminary discussion" as a final decision. Ensure participants understand that outcomes are tentative and subject to further review.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preliminary discussion" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it refers to an initial conversation or exchange of ideas, often setting the stage for more detailed deliberations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "preliminary discussion" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes an initial conversation intended to explore a topic before deeper engagement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and business. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clarifies that the discussion is exploratory and not a final decision. Related phrases like "initial conversation" or "exploratory conversation" can be useful alternatives depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial conversation

Focuses on the beginning aspect of the exchange, highlighting its role as the first interaction.

introductory talk

Emphasizes the role of the discussion as an introduction to a subject or issue.

early stage dialogue

Highlights that the conversation is still in its nascent stages.

exploratory conversation

Underscores the intent to explore and investigate a subject without commitment.

first round of talks

Indicates that this is the first in a series of discussions.

informal exchange

Suggests a less structured and formal interaction.

scoping session

Implies a discussion primarily focused on defining the scope of a project or problem.

initial consultation

Suggests seeking advice or expertise at the outset.

groundwork conversation

Implies setting the stage or laying the foundation for future actions.

feasibility chat

Focuses on discussing whether something is possible or practical.

FAQs

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

You can use "preliminary discussion" to describe an initial conversation on a topic. For example: "We had a preliminary discussion about the budget."

What's a good alternative to "preliminary discussion"?

Alternatives include "initial conversation", "introductory talk", or "exploratory conversation", depending on the specific context.

Is "preliminary discussion" formal or informal?

"Preliminary discussion" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but generally leans toward more professional or neutral settings.

What is the purpose of a "preliminary discussion"?

The purpose of a "preliminary discussion" is to introduce a topic, share initial ideas, and determine whether further investigation or action is warranted.