PREPARATORY Synonyms: 28 Similar and Opposite Words

preparatory

adjective

pri-ˈper-ə-ˌtȯr-ē

Definition of preparatory

as in preliminary

coming before the main part or item usually to introduce or prepare for what follows a preparatory investigation to see if there is enough evidence to warrant bringing charges

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of preparatory Account managers have seen their preparatory work shrink—AI can assemble meeting notes, summarize calls, draft follow-ups and flag patterns across client communication. — Victor Karpenko, Forbes.com, 29 Sep. 2026 The math problem Between the 2020-21 and 2025-26 school years, the number of first-year students who got a D or F grade, withdrew or did not pass in calculus, precalculus and preparatory math courses increased from 13% to 18%. — Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 18 Sep. 2026 Among students who entered in fall 2023, 31% took preparatory math, precalculus or first-year calculus in their first two years, while 41% started in a more advanced course, according to data presented by the UC Office of the President. — Jaweed Kaleem, Los Angeles Times, 17 Sep. 2026 Sudō’s preparatory drawings and tools will offer insight into her processes. — Leslie Camhi, Vogue, 15 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for preparatory

Recent Examples of Synonyms for preparatory

Adjective

The release of preliminary financial results was likely tied to Kimberly-Clark's efforts to close its blockbuster acquisition of Tylenol maker Kenvue , which is supposed to close by year-end.

— Kevin Stankiewicz, CNBC, 1 Nov. 2026
What’s Driving The Increase According to KFF’s analysis of preliminary rate filings, insurers are requesting a median 14% premium increase in the small group market.

— Glynn Frechette, Forbes.com, 30 Oct. 2026

Definition of preliminary

Adjective

Nihon University German film professor Shibuya Tetsuya, who gave an introductory lecture on German cinema, noted that the film even features a vegetarian vampire.

— Lin Ying-Hsuan, Variety, 2 Nov. 2026
Northwestern women’s basketball coach Carla Berube speaks during an introductory news conference March 31, 2026, at Welsh-Ryan Arena in Evanston.

— Colleen Kane, Chicago Tribune, 30 Oct. 2026