preliminary document

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preliminary document" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an initial version of a document that is subject to further revision or approval. Example: "Before we finalize the project, please review the preliminary document and provide your feedback."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

A Justice Department official said this was a preliminary document and the eventual version, issued on Nov. 8, made counterterrorism "the No. 1 goal".

The New York Times

Mr. Myers, the Biotronik lawyer, said that the sales data reviewed by The Times represented a preliminary document that was "replete with inaccurate and incomplete information".

The New York Times - Health

Once your preliminary document is approved, you will receive an email with next steps and access the online Cost of Attendance Adjustment portal.

University of California, Berkeley

The latest study, a preliminary document released in December, would maintain the current limit of 720 snowmobiles a day in Yellowstone, even though current daily use hovers around 250.

The New York Times - Travel

Yahoo will buy 10percentt of the shares in the Hong Kong initial public offering of Alibaba.com, the business-to-business unit of China's biggest online retailer, according to a preliminary document.

The New York Times

Lincoln issued the preliminary document to signal his intention to order the freeing of slaves in any Confederate state that did not return to Union control by Jan . 1 , 1863 the day the official Emancipation Proclamation was signed and issued.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

According to preliminary documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, Computer Associates showed a loss of $1.3 billion for 2001.

The New York Times

Prosecutors have argued in preliminary documents that the crew delayed the evacuation.

The New York Times

Preliminary documents obtained by The Economist suggest big cuts in most departments, and particularly among managers.

The Economist

In practice, starting on preliminary information involves the release of preliminary documents to downstream processes.

Advanced Engineering Informatics

He added: "The incomplete, preliminary documents sought in this lawsuit also contain police personnel information protected from disclosure under the civil rights law".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "preliminary document", clearly state the date of issue or version number to avoid confusion as the document evolves. This helps track changes and ensures everyone is referring to the same version.

Common error

Avoid treating a "preliminary document" as final or authoritative. Always emphasize its tentative nature and the possibility of revisions before it's formally approved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preliminary document" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject of a sentence. It describes a document that is in a draft or initial stage, as indicated by Ludwig. It identifies a specific type of document based on its stage of completion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

26%

Academia

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

17%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "preliminary document" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to a document that is still in its draft stages. Ludwig's analysis indicates its use across various domains, including news, science, and academia. While interchangeable with terms like "draft document" or "initial version", remember to specify the date or version number to avoid confusion. Importantly, don't present it as a final or authoritative source, given its nature is subject to change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

draft document

Emphasizes the early stage of writing and potential for significant revisions.

initial draft

Highlights both the initial stage and its form as a draft.

working paper

Suggests a document used for ongoing work and discussion, especially in academic or research settings.

preliminary report

Indicates a report that presents early findings or assessments.

initial version

Focuses on the document being the first iteration.

trial version

Highlights the document being used for testing or evaluation purposes.

provisional document

Suggests the document is temporary and subject to change based on certain conditions.

early version

Emphasizes that the document represents an early state of development.

unconfirmed document

Highlights that the document has not been fully verified or authorized.

planning document

Focuses on the document's role in outlining plans or strategies.

FAQs

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

You might say, "The committee reviewed the "preliminary document" to prepare for the meeting" or "This "preliminary document" outlines our initial findings".

What are some alternatives to "preliminary document"?

Consider using "draft document", "initial version", or "working paper" depending on the context.

What does "preliminary document" mean?

A "preliminary document" refers to an initial version of a document that is subject to further revision, editing, or approval. It indicates that the document is not yet in its final form.

Is it appropriate to share a "preliminary document" outside of my team?

Sharing a "preliminary document" outside your team depends on the situation and sensitivity of the information. Always include a disclaimer indicating its draft status and potential for changes.