Definition of preparatorynext
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 Sudō’s preparatory drawings and tools will offer insight into her processes. — Leslie Camhi, Vogue, 15 Sep. 2026 In his case, this is mainly evident during the preparatory stage. — Leo Barraclough, Variety, 5 Sep. 2026 Baniewicz was hired by Bishop Miege in 2023 after serving nearly 14 years as president of Maur Hill-Mount Academy, a college preparatory boarding school in Atchison. — Judy L. Thomas, Kansas City Star, 20 Aug. 2026 Prince Gabriel, 22, completed a one-year preparatory course at the National Mathematics & Science College in England before graduating from the Royal Military Academy of Belgium. — Meredith Kile, PEOPLE, 27 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for preparatory
Recent Examples of Synonyms for preparatory
Adjective
  • However, preliminary readings from the National Weather Service recorded no rain in Santa Clarita.
    — Noah Haggerty, Los Angeles Times, 11 Oct. 2026
  • Across the country, the preliminary assessment identified damage to seven hotels, 13 churches, 26 government buildings and four residential apartment buildings, in addition to the homes, schools and healthcare facilities already counted.
    — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 10 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • If interest rates are higher when that introductory period ends, your monthly payment and interest costs could rise significantly.
    — Mike Winters, CNBC, 13 Oct. 2026
  • OpenAI says Dot usage will temporarily not count against eligible users' plan allowances during the introductory period, with longer-term usage terms still to come.
    — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 10 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Preparatory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/preparatory. Accessed 18 Oct. 2026.

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