preliminary to this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "preliminary to this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is introductory or preparatory to the main subject or action being discussed. Example: "Preliminary to this discussion, we need to review the previous findings to ensure everyone is on the same page."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Alfred's capture of London in 886 and the resultant acceptance of him by all the English outside the Danish areas was a preliminary to this reconquest.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, preliminary to this study the same data were analyzed using a mixed modeling approach to investigate time trends.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Preliminary to this study, the system was validated in a small sample of patients with substance use disorder (personal resources' Cronbach's alpha=.81; wish to change's Cronbach's alpha=.83) [ 36].

BMC Health Services Research

Preliminary to this study, we explored the feasibility of administering full-dose l-OHP 130 mg m−2, but observed prohibitive toxicity; therefore, we chose 85 mg m−2 of the diaminocyclohexane (DACH) platinum compound.

British Journal of Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

As a preliminary to discussing this bottom, we pause to present some N-body kinematics, an issue that already entered when we discussed the Hughes Eckart term above.

Bulletin of Mathematical Sciences

Preliminary to obtaining this result for the compressible medium case, results are first found for the incompressible case over a range of rigid particle size distributions.

Composites Part B: Engineering

Although it has been shown that GDH activity declines with H2O2 [ 34], it is too preliminary to assign this enzyme some responsibility in α-KG intracellular accumulation in the presence of tellurite.

BioMed Research International

Magic and Cabala are preliminary to union in this process but still important.

SEP

This is the subject of an ongoing study still too preliminary to be included in this manuscript.

eLife

"It's a little bit preliminary to talk about something like this at this point," said Nicholas Mitsis, a spokesman for Intelsat.

The New York Times - Tech

Some preliminary answers to this digital quandary are emerging.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "preliminary to this" to clearly establish the sequence of events or actions, making sure the connection between the preliminary action and the subsequent one is evident to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "preliminary to this" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "before this" or "previously" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preliminary to this" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a preceding action or event. It sets a chronological context for what follows, indicating that something is introductory or preparatory. As Ludwig AI explains, this establishes a sequence.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

13%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "preliminary to this" serves as a formal way to introduce an action or event that precedes the main point, establishing a clear sequence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, highlighting its usage in setting context. While versatile, it's most suited for science, news reporting, and encyclopedic contexts, where clarity and precision are paramount. For casual conversations, consider simpler alternatives like "before this". Keep in mind, as the analysis shows, that mastering the context ensures you effectively communicate the order of events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

before this

Emphasizes temporal precedence; a more straightforward way to indicate something happened earlier.

previous to this

Another way of saying "before this".

prior to this

Formal synonym, stressing the chronological order of events with a slightly more elevated tone.

in anticipation of this

Highlights that something is done expecting a future event.

leading up to this

Describes events or actions that build towards a specific moment or result.

as an introduction to this

Explicitly identifies one thing as setting the stage for another, often used in formal settings.

in preparation for this

Focuses on the steps taken to get ready for what follows, emphasizing preparedness.

as a precursor to this

Identifies something as a sign or indication of what is to come; useful in analytical contexts.

earlier than this

Directly indicates a point in time that precedes a specified moment, simple and clear.

antecedent to this

More formal or academic usage, implying a cause-and-effect or logical relationship.

FAQs

What does "preliminary to this" mean?

The phrase "preliminary to this" means preceding or introductory to the matter currently under consideration. It indicates something that happens or is done before a particular action or event.

How can I use "preliminary to this" in a sentence?

You can use "preliminary to this" to introduce an initial step or action that sets the stage for a later event. For example, "Preliminary to this study, we conducted a pilot test to ensure the methodology was sound."

What are some alternatives to "preliminary to this"?

Alternatives include phrases like "before this", "prior to this", or "in advance of this". The choice depends on the context and the desired level of formality.

Is "preliminary to this" formal or informal?

The phrase "preliminary to this" leans towards formal usage. In more casual settings, consider using simpler alternatives such as "before this" or "previously".