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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 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 In his case, this is mainly evident during the preparatory stage. — Leo Barraclough, Variety, 5 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for preparatory

Recent Examples of Synonyms for preparatory

Adjective

There are also plans afoot by the French defense procurement agency (DGA) called SNA3G, which are preliminary plans for an eventual replacement of the Suffren-class in the future.

— Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2026
Martelly’s name was among 16 listed Friday on the Provisional Electoral Council’s website as having preliminary registered to run.

— Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 17 Oct. 2026

Definition of preliminary

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