preliminary sketch

USAGE SUMMARY

"preliminary sketch" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to an initial sketch or depiction of an object or idea. For example, "The artist created a preliminary sketch of the landscape he wanted to paint."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

For the moment we only have the preliminary sketch.

The New York Times

The clipping included a preliminary sketch of the building by the firm of Charles Luckman Associates.

The New Yorker

In the hours after the deadliest shooting in American history, a preliminary sketch of the perpetrator emerged.

The Guardian

When Ponti did a preliminary sketch of a house that evoked a hacienda, she said: "That's a Spanish house.

The New York Times - Magazine

Shakespeare had already come up with this idea in a preliminary sketch of the character in his early history play known as "3 Henry VI".

The New Yorker

A preliminary sketch shows a bowed roof on the new head house, an esplanade, arched fanlight windows and twin towers at the end of the pier.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Some are preliminary sketches for later completed projects.

The New York Times - Arts

Below, a sneak peek at some preliminary sketches.

The New Yorker

Some of the drawings are preliminary sketches for later completed projects.

The New York Times - Arts

Then, she discusses her ideas with Ms. Tarasova and draws a few preliminary sketches.

The New York Times

"The Last Good Chance" is like a set of preliminary sketches for a big, plummy novel.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "preliminary sketch" to clearly indicate that something is in an initial, undeveloped stage. It's particularly effective when discussing artistic, architectural, or conceptual projects.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "preliminary sketch" as a finalized or polished piece. Clearly label it as preliminary to set appropriate expectations and avoid misrepresentation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preliminary sketch" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It designates an initial or preparatory drawing, design, or plan. As Ludwig indicates, this phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "preliminary sketch" is a common and grammatically sound term used to describe an initial drawing or design. According to Ludwig, its usage spans various domains including news, science, and encyclopedias, reflecting its versatility and broad applicability. While generally neutral in register, its precision makes it particularly useful in professional and academic settings. Related phrases include "initial draft" and "early outline". Remember to use "preliminary sketch" to accurately represent the initial stage of a project and avoid presenting it as a finished product.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial draft

Replaces "sketch" with "draft", emphasizing the early stage of development.

preliminary design

Replaces "sketch" with "design", useful for something related to a product or structure.

early outline

Substitutes "sketch" with "outline", focusing on the basic structure.

rough draft

Emphasizes the unfinished and imperfect nature of the initial version.

first version

A more general term that can apply to various types of initial creations.

prototype design

Implies a more technical or engineering context, focusing on functionality.

test model

Suggests a preliminary version used for testing and refinement.

pilot study

Used in research contexts to describe a small-scale preliminary investigation.

initial concept

Focuses on the idea or concept behind the sketch, rather than the drawing itself.

schematic diagram

Suitable for technical fields, referring to a diagram that outlines the essential components of a system.

FAQs

How is a "preliminary sketch" different from a final drawing?

A "preliminary sketch" is an initial drawing meant for planning or exploration, while a final drawing is a finished work with refined details and a higher degree of completion.

What can I say instead of "preliminary sketch"?

You can use alternatives like "initial draft", "early outline", or "rough draft" depending on the context.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the term "preliminary sketch"?

The term "preliminary sketch" is appropriate in contexts related to art, architecture, engineering, and project planning where an initial design or plan is being presented.

Is "preliminary sketch" formal or informal language?

"Preliminary sketch" is generally considered neutral to formal language, suitable for both professional and academic settings. Terms like "rough draft" might be more informal.