preliminary remarks

USAGE SUMMARY

"preliminary remarks" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when introducing a speech or presentation, or when providing an overview of a discussion or topic. For example, "In my preliminary remarks, I'd like to give a brief overview of the main points we'll be discussing today."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

What Rolnik did yesterday was provide "preliminary remarks".

The Guardian - Opinion

Janacek's six-movement suite, one of his earliest surviving instrumental works, represents "Janacek before he was Janacek," as the musicologist Michael Beckerman said in preliminary remarks.

The New York Times - Arts

After making a few preliminary remarks and a little joke ("This is one time when the buyer will get something back on the bottle"), he proceeded briskly to Lot 337.

The New Yorker

After some preliminary remarks about the strength of the economy and the old ideas of Republicans, Mr. Gore began to bash big oil and big insurance companies, a staple nowadays of his stump speech.

The New York Times

So much for preliminary remarks.

SEP

Starting point are the following preliminary remarks.

Journal of Statistical Distributions and Applications

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

A preliminary remark about this notion is in order.

SEP

Avempace followed Philoponus in a preliminary remark observing that Aristotle proved in his book On the Heavens the existence of four elementary bodies.

SEP

As a preliminary remark, we note that Φ 0 T ( L ) is a simple arc contained in ℰ, connecting its end points Φ 0 T ( P + ) and Φ 0 T ( P − ) on Γ ℓ ∗ through the 'intermediate' point Φ 0 T ( R ) on Γ ℓ 1. Observe also that Φ 0 T ( P + ) and Φ 0 T ( P − ) are antipodal.

Boundary Value Problems

As preliminary remark, we admit that in determining portal hypertension, mechanisms potentially reversible are involved, i.e., contractility of sinusoidal lining cells, systemic mediators of arteriolar resistance, production of endothelins or nitric oxide, and swelling of hepatocytes [ 29].

BMC Gastroenterology

Some preliminary concluding remarks and comments are drawn.

Protection and Control of Modern Power Systems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "preliminary remarks" to set the stage for a more detailed discussion or presentation. It signals that the following information will provide context or an overview.

Common error

Avoid using "preliminary remarks" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "just a few quick notes" or "before we begin" to maintain a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preliminary remarks" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject or object in a sentence. It denotes introductory comments or observations made before a main discussion or presentation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "preliminary remarks" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that serves to introduce or preface a more detailed discussion or presentation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for formal and professional contexts. Its function is to provide context and set expectations. While versatile, it's best reserved for situations where a structured and organized introduction is needed, and avoid overuse in informal settings. Semantically related alternatives include "introductory comments" and "opening statements". The phrase appears frequently in Science and News & Media publications with high authority.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Introductory comments

Focuses on the introductory nature of the remarks, omitting the 'preliminary' aspect.

Initial observations

Emphasizes the observational aspect, suggesting a focus on noticed details at the beginning.

Opening statements

Highlights the act of stating or declaring something at the beginning of a presentation or discussion.

Initial thoughts

Focuses on conveying thoughts or ideas at the start, suggesting a less formal tone.

Preparatory notes

Highlights notes taken in preparation for a more in-depth discussion.

Prior comments

Emphasizes that these comments occurred before the main subject.

Early assessments

Highlights judgments or evaluations made at an early stage.

Introductory speech

Refers to a longer and more formal set of introductory comments.

Background information

Focuses on providing context and relevant details at the beginning.

Provisional comments

Highlights the tentative or subject-to-change nature of the remarks.

FAQs

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

You might say, "In my "preliminary remarks", I'll outline the key points of today's presentation," or "The speaker began with "preliminary remarks" about the project's history."

What are some alternatives to "preliminary remarks"?

Consider using alternatives such as "introductory comments", "initial observations", or "opening statements" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "preliminary remarks" in formal writing?

Yes, "preliminary remarks" is suitable for formal writing, especially when introducing a topic or providing context before delving into specifics. It's often used in academic papers, reports, and presentations.

What's the difference between "preliminary remarks" and "concluding remarks"?

"Preliminary remarks" introduce a topic or discussion, setting the stage for what's to come. In contrast, "concluding remarks" summarize and wrap up a discussion, providing a final overview or summary of the main points.