preliminary negotiations

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preliminary negotiations" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to initial discussions or talks that take place before formal agreements or contracts are made. Example: "Before we finalize the contract, we need to engage in preliminary negotiations to outline the key terms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Reference

Social Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It also obliges workers to hold "preliminary negotiations" with employers before initiating strike action.

The New York Times

What we are witnessing are the preliminary negotiations of how such an arrangement might work.

The Guardian - Opinion

He said he had led preliminary negotiations with Sun about implementing Java on Android in 2005.

The Guardian - Tech

The two sides have held preliminary negotiations during the last month.

The New York Times

In this Article, Professors Schwartz and Scott show first that no liability attaches for representations made during preliminary negotiations.

Columbia University

They are in preliminary negotiations to buy the Salvation Army building on Ashland Place, which is next to the academy.

The New York Times - Arts

And in the preliminary negotiations, China has already offered to open its market to some farm products.

The New York Times

In Constantinople (January 1536) he conducted preliminary negotiations with the representative of the French king for a commercial treaty.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They failed to reach agreement during preliminary negotiations, [p681] and, in April 1979, the Railroad and the Union jointly petitioned the National Mediation Board for assistance.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The freeze idea is aimed at getting preliminary talks started, although formal negotiations on the incentives package would not start until Iran stops enriching uranium.

The New York Times

According to THR, Levi's talks are still preliminary and negotiations have yet to begin.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to "preliminary negotiations", ensure that all parties understand that the discussions are non-binding and subject to further changes.

Common error

Avoid treating outcomes from "preliminary negotiations" as definitive or binding, as they are intended to explore possibilities rather than establish firm commitments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preliminary negotiations" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the initial phase of discussions aimed at reaching an agreement. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Academia

14%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "preliminary negotiations" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes the initial stages of discussions before formal agreements are made. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Academia and Science. It's important to remember that these discussions are exploratory and non-binding. When writing, use "preliminary negotiations" to clearly indicate that the discussions are in their early stages, exploring possibilities rather than establishing commitments. Be wary of mistaking these early talks for final agreements, and instead, treat them as groundwork for more structured negotiations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial discussions

Focuses on the informal aspect of the early talks.

exploratory talks

Highlights the investigative nature of the early conversations.

early discussions

Emphasizes the timing of the negotiations.

preparatory talks

Highlights the preparatory aspect of early conversations.

initial contacts

Focuses on the act of establishing first communication.

opening negotiations

Suggests the commencement of formal negotiation process.

informal consultations

Highlights the non-binding and casual aspect of the talks.

test ballooning

A metaphor suggesting exploration of possibilities.

groundwork discussions

Implies laying the foundation for future negotiations.

early stage talks

More directly indicates the introductory phase of discussions.

FAQs

What does "preliminary negotiations" mean?

The term "preliminary negotiations" refers to the initial discussions or talks held before formal negotiations begin. It's a stage for exploring potential agreements and understanding each party's position.

What can I say instead of "preliminary negotiations"?

You can use alternatives like "initial discussions", "exploratory talks", or "early discussions" depending on the context.

Are "preliminary negotiations" binding?

No, "preliminary negotiations" are generally non-binding. They are for exploring possibilities and setting the stage for formal negotiations, which would lead to a binding agreement if successful.

What's the difference between "preliminary negotiations" and formal negotiations?

"Preliminary negotiations" are exploratory and non-binding, aimed at understanding each party's position. Formal negotiations are structured discussions with the intent of reaching a binding agreement.