# preparatory

/ˈpɹɛpɹəˌtɔɹi/ (US) · /pɹɪpˈæɹətəɹˌi/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/preparatory
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

done in order to get ready for something more important that will happen later.

For teachers: serving to prepare for a subsequent event or action; introductory in nature.

## Examples

- The team did some preparatory exercises before the big game.
- The committee held several preparatory meetings to ensure the main conference would run smoothly next month.
- Before the surgeon began the delicate procedure, the medical staff completed a series of preparatory checks to verify that all equipment was sterile and functioning correctly.

## Pitfalls

- Not "preparatory of the exam" but "preparatory to the exam" — When used to indicate what something is preparing for, the adjective takes the preposition 'to' rather than 'of'.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun; often followed by the preposition 'to'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.