Synonyms of preparatory

preparatory

adjective

pri-ˈper-ə-ˌtȯr-ē 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• preliminary
• introductory
• preparative
• prefatory
• beginning
• primary
• preparing
• precursory
• prelim
• early
• prelusive
• basic
• introducing
• elementary
• previous
• fundamental
• readying
• premonitory
• warning
• preceding
• prior
• prefacing
• ahead
• former

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• subsequent
• following
• after
• behind

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of preparatory

The push for college-for-all that gained momentum through the 1990s and 2000s reframed high school as a four-year college preparatory exercise. —Gerald Bradshaw, Chicago Tribune, 25 Feb. 2026

After studying his own practice, Licklider determined that as much as 85% of his intellectual work — such as searching for data, running calculations, testing conclusions, and synthesizing information — was fundamentally preparatory for deeper, more creative efforts. —Big Think, 9 Feb. 2026

But those who supported the proposal saw it as an opportunity to plan ahead for that possibility, signal the county's values and show solidarity with area residents who are fearful and asking for preparatory action. —Claudia Levens, jsonline.com, 6 Feb. 2026

Countries have been working through many of those questions at preparatory meetings, with a final session scheduled for late March. —Annika Hammerschlag, Los Angeles Times, 21 Jan. 2026