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Showing results for preparatory.
Definitions

preparatory

[pri-par-uh-tawr-ee, -tohr-ee, -pair-, prep-er-uh-] / prɪˈpær əˌtɔr i, -ˌtoʊr i, -ˈpɛər-, ˈprɛp ər ə- /
ADJECTIVE
introductory, basic
Synonyms
STRONGEST
preliminary previous
WEAK
before elementary in advance of in anticipation of inductive opening precautionary prefatory prelusive prep preparative primary prior to
Antonyms
WEAK
auxiliary supplementary

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The initial discussions will be preparatory, setting guidelines for more formal cease-fire talks, these officials said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

The grouping added they welcomed "the commitment of nations who are engaging in preparatory planning" but provided no further details.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

Nkanu Adichie-Esege, one of twins, died on 7 January after complications arose during preparatory medical procedures at Euracare Hospital in Lagos.

From BBC • Mar. 4, 2026

That’s in part because it decided to experiment with age-verification steps in Australia long before it received the government’s letter, as a preparatory step.

From Slate • Feb. 11, 2026

The preparatory steps are now under way, both in the United States and in the Soviet Union.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan

Vocabulary lists containing preparatory

Florida's B.E.S.T. Common Prefixes: pre-

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