Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
preliminary version
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"preliminary version" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is a work-in-progress or a precursor of a final product. For example, you could say, "This is only a preliminary version of the report, so there may be changes later."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Alternative expressions(20)
for trial purposes only
for research purposes only
for documentation purposes only
provisional version
beta version
for demonstration purposes only
pilot program
for recording purposes only
early edition
proof of concept
interim version
not for general use
for archiving purposes only
for archival purposes only
feasibility study
tentative version
for experimental use only
initial draft
for evaluation purposes only
trial version
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Indeed, the report issued today echoed a preliminary version released soon after the rally.
News & Media
On Aug. 29, their new company, called Skype, released a preliminary version of the program.
News & Media
A preliminary version of the Web site, www.aolaadvantage.com, contains information about the new program.
News & Media
In early July, a preliminary version of the app was released to 30 local campaigns.
News & Media
In a preliminary version of the theory, the bending came out too small by half.
Encyclopedias
A preliminary version of this method was introduced in [23].
A preliminary version of this paper appeared elsewhere [13].
A preliminary version [32] was published in WASA 2017.
A preliminary version of our work first appeared in [33].
Preliminary version of these results have appeared in [21].
A preliminary version of our work was presented earlier[29].
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "preliminary version" when the content is expected to undergo further revisions or updates before being finalized.
Common error
Avoid making critical decisions based solely on data presented in a "preliminary version". Always confirm with the final, verified report.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "preliminary version" functions as a noun phrase, where "preliminary" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "version". Ludwig confirms its widespread use in denoting an early or initial form of something.
Frequent in
Science
61%
News & Media
32%
Formal & Business
3%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
1%
Wiki
1%
Social Media
1%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "preliminary version" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase that denotes an early or draft form of something. As highlighted by Ludwig, it serves to indicate that the material is subject to change and should not be considered final. It is frequently used in scientific and news contexts, appearing in reputable sources like The New York Times and EURASIP Journals. Alternatives such as "initial draft" or "test version" can be used depending on the specific context. When using a "preliminary version", it is crucial to specify its date or version number and to avoid making critical decisions solely based on its contents.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
initial draft
Focuses on the early stage of a document or plan before revisions.
test version
Highlights the use of the version for testing and feedback purposes.
early edition
Emphasizes the timing of the version, suggesting it's among the first.
pre-release copy
Indicates the copy is released before the official launch.
trial release
Specifically used for software or products intended for testing.
first iteration
Emphasizes this version is the first in a series of developments.
prototype model
Suggests a working model used for demonstrations or testing purposes.
mock-up
Describes a visual or physical representation for demonstration.
pilot program
Implies a test run of a project or initiative.
feasibility study
Refers to an assessment of the practicality of a project.
FAQs
How to use "preliminary version" in a sentence?
You can use "preliminary version" to describe an early or draft form of a document, software, or report. For example: "The conclusions in this "preliminary version" are subject to change."
What can I say instead of "preliminary version"?
You can use alternatives like "initial draft", "early edition", or "test version" depending on the context.
Is it appropriate to cite a "preliminary version" in academic research?
It is generally acceptable to cite a "preliminary version", but clearly indicate its status and acknowledge that the final version may differ. Provide a DOI link, if available.
What's the difference between "preliminary version" and "final version"?
The "preliminary version" is an early, unconfirmed version, while the "final version" represents the completed, reviewed, and approved state of a document or product.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested