preliminary report

USAGE SUMMARY

"preliminary report" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a report that provides an initial outline or summary of the findings or results of an investigation, study, or experiment. For example: "This preliminary report shows that our search engine optimization efforts have been successful in increasing website traffic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Preliminary report on the World's Fair.

The New Yorker

A preliminary report is expected on Thursday.

The New York Times

But no preliminary report was forthcoming.

The New York Times

Think of this as a preliminary report.

The New York Times - Arts

The expenses regulator posted a preliminary report on its website.

The Guardian

(A preliminary report assigned no responsibility for the collapse).

The New York Times

The preliminary report indicates a similar maintenance problem.

The New York Times

This is a preliminary report from the courtroom.

The New York Times

noted several positive developments in its preliminary report.

The New York Times

Preliminary report: 75 children taking shelter in school.

The New York Times

The EU's preliminary report on the election was scathing.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "preliminary report", clearly state when a more comprehensive report will be available to manage expectations.

Common error

Avoid treating a "preliminary report" as a definitive conclusion. Always acknowledge its limitations and the possibility of changes in subsequent, more detailed reports.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preliminary report" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a document that presents initial findings or an early overview of a study, investigation, or project. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

42%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "preliminary report" is a common noun phrase used to describe an initial report outlining the early findings of a study or investigation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and widespread across various domains, primarily in News & Media and Science. It is generally considered neutral in register, though it can become more formal in academic or scientific contexts. When using "preliminary report", remember to manage expectations by clarifying that the information is subject to change in subsequent reports. Alternatives include "initial findings", "early assessment", and "interim findings".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preliminary findings

Highlights the data or conclusions before a formal report.

initial findings

Focuses on the results themselves rather than the document.

interim findings

Highlights that the findings are not final.

early assessment

Emphasizes the evaluative aspect and its timing.

initial assessment

Similar to "early assessment", but potentially more formal.

first draft report

Specifies that the report is in an early stage of development.

early stage analysis

Focuses on the analytical process and its current phase.

initial overview

Focuses on providing a general understanding at the beginning.

progress update

Emphasizes the aspect of ongoing work.

advance summary

Implies a condensed version shared ahead of a complete document.

FAQs

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

You can use "preliminary report" to indicate an early set of findings, as in, "The investigation's "preliminary report" suggests a need for further inquiry."

What's the difference between "preliminary report" and "final report"?

A ""preliminary report"" offers initial findings and is subject to change, while a "final report" presents the complete and definitive conclusions of an investigation or study.

What can I say instead of "preliminary report"?

Alternatives include "initial findings", "early assessment", or "interim findings", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to issue a "preliminary report"?

It's appropriate to issue a ""preliminary report"" when some initial findings are available and need to be communicated, but the full investigation or study is not yet complete.