preliminary research

USAGE SUMMARY

"preliminary research" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to research done at the start of a project or process in order to familiarize yourself with existing knowledge and/or inform what you are doing. For example: "Our team conducted preliminary research to better understand the issue before forming our opinion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Preliminary research.

The New Yorker

First, do some preliminary research.

The New York Times

Test it in some preliminary research.

The Guardian

That's where the preliminary research again becomes important.

The New Yorker

And one that preliminary research shows works much more effectively.

Harvard Business Review

Mr. Brown founded Dynalloy in 1989 after five years of preliminary research.

The New York Times

The group's preliminary research suggests a quarter of people relying on food banks are in work.

The Guardian

I tried to quell those doubts last week by going online to do some preliminary research.

The New York Times - Tech

Meanwhile, men who choose to take testosterone have only preliminary research to go on.

The New York Times - Health

But preliminary research suggests that there are other depression-related genes that mainly affect women.

The New York Times - Science

(Preliminary research had established they'd find few fashion choices more mortifying).

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "preliminary research" to clearly indicate that the research is in its early stages and may not be conclusive.

Common error

Avoid presenting results from "preliminary research" as definitive conclusions. Clearly indicate that further investigation is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preliminary research" functions as a noun phrase, where "preliminary" modifies the noun "research". It describes the initial phase of a research endeavor, often conducted to explore a topic or inform subsequent, more detailed studies. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

30%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "preliminary research" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that indicates the initial stages of an investigation. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage across a variety of contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. When using this phrase, it's crucial to manage expectations by clarifying the exploratory nature of the work. Related phrases like "initial investigation" or "early study" can serve as alternatives, while being mindful to not overstate the findings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

background research

Highlights the contextual and foundational aspect of the initial investigation.

initial investigation

Replaces 'research' with 'investigation', implying a more formal or structured approach.

preparatory investigation

Uses 'investigation' to denote a careful and systematic inquiry conducted in preparation.

early study

Substitutes 'research' with 'study', focusing on the initial phase of exploration.

preliminary assessment

Replaces 'research' with 'assessment', focusing on evaluating the subject in initial stage.

exploratory analysis

Replaces 'research' with 'analysis', emphasizing the analytical aspect of the initial investigation.

scoping study

Focuses on defining the scope and boundaries of a potential larger study.

front-end analysis

Emphasizes the importance of analysis conducted at the beginning.

pilot project

Replaces 'research' with 'project', suggesting a small-scale, initial endeavor.

feasibility study

Emphasizes the assessment of practicality or viability.

FAQs

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

"Preliminary research" is used to describe the initial stages of investigation. For instance, "Our "preliminary research" suggests a potential link between the two variables.".

What are some alternatives to saying "preliminary research"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "initial investigation", "early study", or "background research".

What is the difference between "preliminary research" and "comprehensive research"?

"Preliminary research" refers to the initial exploration of a topic, while "comprehensive research" involves a more in-depth and thorough investigation.

Is it appropriate to cite "preliminary research" in a formal report?

Yes, but clearly indicate that the research is preliminary and that further studies are needed to confirm the findings. Acknowledge the limitations of the "preliminary research".