el preliminar
preliminary
Definition & meaning
Preliminar means preliminary: coming before the main part of something, often in preparation for it.
It can also be a masculine noun meaning a preliminary step, introduction, or preparatory stage.
Grammar & Word origin
As an adjective, it has the same form for masculine and feminine nouns: un informe preliminar (a preliminary report), una evaluación preliminar (a preliminary assessment). Its plural is preliminares.
It comes from Latin praeliminaris, formed from elements meaning “before” and “threshold.”
Synonyms & antonyms
- previo — “previous” or “prior”; it indicates that something comes before, but does not necessarily suggest preparation.
- preparatorio — “preparatory”; it emphasizes preparation for a later activity.
- definitivo — “final” or “definitive”; it contrasts with something preliminary that may still change.
Common phrases & collocations
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Examples
Este es un informe preliminar sobre el proyecto.adjective
This is a preliminary report on the project.
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