What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
initial
Example
The initial stage of the project involved research and planning. [initial: adjective]
Example
I need your initial approval before we can proceed. [initial: noun]
Example
My name starts with the initial 'J'. [initial: noun]
preliminary
Example
We conducted a preliminary study to gather data for our research. [preliminary: adjective]
Example
The preliminary round of the competition will determine who advances to the finals. [preliminary: noun]
Example
The doctor performed a preliminary examination before ordering further tests. [preliminary: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Initial is more commonly used in everyday language than preliminary. Initial is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while preliminary is more specific and often used in formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between initial and preliminary?
Preliminary is generally considered more formal than initial. It is often used in academic, scientific, or technical writing to describe preparatory or assessment work done before a more significant event or process.
