preliminary issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preliminary issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an initial question or problem that needs to be addressed before moving on to more significant matters. Example: "Before we can discuss the main topic, we need to resolve the preliminary issue regarding the budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Asda stressed that the decision by the tribunal was on a preliminary issue.

The Guardian - Business

"They are likely to spend some hundreds of thousands of pounds in preparation for, and at the hearing of, the preliminary issue, and even that is only the preliminary issue".

Independent

The judge said the case has not yet reached the point where a preliminary issue has been decided.

Independent

"They made an offer which would have eliminated all risk of an adverse costs finding both for themselves and Mr Mitchell at the trial of the preliminary issue.

The Guardian

"There would have been a trial of the preliminary issue between him and PC Rowland only and only one set of costs would have been incurred and payable by him if, as was the case, he lost".

The Guardian

He added: "Although I have concluded that NGN should have foreseen that their interests were fully protected if the preliminary issue had been substantially derogated to PC Rowland's team, nevertheless they were entitled to protect their own interests in any reasonable manner which they saw fit.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The judges are considering preliminary issues in those cases.

The New York Times

Over a two week hearing, the judge will decide the preliminary issues of the meaning of the words complained of and whether they were substantially true.

Independent

The legal ruling on the preliminary issues in the case published on Thursday is the first instance of a court declaring that the government can make a "closed material application" under the "secret courts" act.

The Guardian

The hearing touched on a litany of preliminary issues leading up to what is expected to be a long fight over the city's eligibility to file for bankruptcy.

The New York Times

Two judgments on preliminary issues in the litigation were handed down in November 2009.

Computer Law & Security Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a complex topic, address the "preliminary issue" upfront to provide necessary context and avoid confusion later on. This sets the stage for deeper analysis.

Common error

Don't jump into the main discussion without clarifying the "preliminary issue". Failing to do so can lead to misunderstandings and irrelevant arguments, hindering effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preliminary issue" functions as a noun phrase that identifies an initial question, problem, or consideration that requires attention before proceeding with a more substantial discussion or action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "preliminary issue" refers to an initial matter that needs to be addressed before proceeding to more significant topics. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in various contexts. This phrase is most frequently encountered in news, scientific, and formal business settings. While alternatives like "initial matter" or "preliminary matter" exist, the best practice is to ensure the "preliminary issue" is clarified to avoid misunderstandings. Overlooking it can hinder effective communication. In summary, "preliminary issue" is a valuable phrase for structuring discussions by clarifying foundational aspects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preliminary matter

A more formal synonym, placing emphasis on the introductory nature.

initial matter

Emphasizes the starting point of a problem or subject.

threshold question

Implies a crucial issue that must be resolved first.

initial concern

Highlights the early stage of worry or consideration.

preceding problem

Focuses on the chronological order, indicating an issue that comes before others.

prior consideration

Indicates something that needs to be thought about beforehand.

introductory subject

Highlights the beginning point of a topic.

initial point

Emphasizes the commencement of a discussion or analysis.

opening question

Focuses on the first inquiry to be addressed.

first step

Highlights the importance of this issue as an initial action.

FAQs

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

You can use "preliminary issue" to refer to an initial question or problem that must be addressed before moving on to more significant matters. For example, "Before we can discuss the main topic, we need to resolve the "preliminary issue" regarding the budget."

What is a good alternative to "preliminary issue"?

Alternatives to "preliminary issue" include "initial matter", "initial concern", or "preliminary matter", depending on the specific context.

Is "preliminary issue" formal or informal?

"Preliminary issue" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, in very informal settings, simpler terms like "first problem" might be preferred.

What is the difference between "preliminary issue" and "main issue"?

The "preliminary issue" is a preceding or introductory matter that needs to be resolved before addressing the "main issue", which is the central topic of discussion or concern.