preliminary study

USAGE SUMMARY

'preliminary study' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing an initial investigation or assessment of a particular subject. For example, "We conducted a preliminary study to assess the effectiveness of this new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A preliminary study.

Nature

DiSalvo's thorough investigation confirmed his preliminary study.

The New Yorker

"We decided to do a preliminary study.

The New York Times - Books

Some aspects of "Preliminary Study" were pop.

The New York Times - Arts

Preliminary Study List deadline (5 p.m.).

Stanford University

Preliminary study results are expected in 2010.

Transplantation Proceedings

September 20 (Mon, 5 00 p.m). Preliminary Study List deadline.

Stanford University

June 20 (Mon, 5 00 p.m). Preliminary Study List deadline.

Stanford University

Drawing: Preliminary study of library, Western Theological Seminary.

Cornell University

A preliminary study protocol is described.

Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications

January 3 (Mon, 5 00 p.m). Preliminary Study List deadline.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing initial findings, clearly state that the results are from a "preliminary study" and may require further validation through more extensive research.

Common error

Avoid presenting the findings of a "preliminary study" as definitive or conclusive. Emphasize the exploratory nature of the research and the need for further investigation to confirm or expand upon the initial results.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preliminary study" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence. It often modifies another noun, such as "report" or "results", to indicate the early or initial nature of the study. Ludwig AI confirms its broad applicability across various domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

44%

News & Media

27%

Academia

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "preliminary study" is a noun phrase used to describe an initial investigation, assessment, or analysis. Ludwig AI validates its usage across several domains, including science, news, and academia, as its response status is "RESPONSE_YES". It signals that the study is in its early stages and that findings may require further validation. The phrase is considered grammatically correct and very common, with a tendency toward neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, avoid overstating conclusions and emphasize the exploratory nature of the research. Alternatives include "initial assessment", "pilot investigation", and "exploratory analysis".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

preliminary investigation

A direct synonym, placing emphasis on the investigative aspect of the study.

initial assessment

Focuses on the evaluative aspect of the study, emphasizing the early stage of assessment.

pilot investigation

Highlights the experimental nature of the study and its role as a trial run.

exploratory analysis

Emphasizes the open-ended and discovery-oriented nature of the study.

feasibility study

Concentrates on determining the viability and practicality of a larger project.

early research

A broader term that emphasizes the nascent stage of the research effort.

scoping review

Implies a broader overview of available evidence to map key concepts and research gaps.

first-stage research

Emphasizes its position in a sequence of research activities.

groundwork study

Highlights the foundational aspect, indicating that it lays the base for future research.

precursory analysis

Highlights that the analysis serves as a predecessor or preparation for later, more detailed study.

FAQs

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

"Preliminary study" is typically used to describe research that is in its early stages. For example, "The researchers conducted a "preliminary study" to assess the feasibility of the new treatment."

What are some alternatives to "preliminary study"?

Alternatives include "initial assessment", "pilot investigation", or "exploratory analysis". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to base major decisions on a "preliminary study"?

While a "preliminary study" can provide valuable insights, it's generally not advisable to base major decisions solely on its findings. Further research and validation are usually necessary.

What are the limitations of a "preliminary study"?

A "preliminary study" often has a small sample size, limited scope, and may not be representative of the larger population. These limitations should be considered when interpreting the results.