The word "preliminaries" refers to the initial or preparatory stages of something. Its pronunciation is /prɪˈlɪmənəriz/, with emphasis on the 'li' syllable. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound as in "sit", followed by a "l" sound, and then a stressed "i" sound. The remaining syllables are pronounced with short "ə" sounds as in "uh" and "iz" as in "is". When spelling "preliminaries", one must pay attention to the "a" and "e" in the middle of the word and make sure to include both.
Preliminaries refers to the initial steps or actions taken before the main or central part of something. It can be used to describe the preparatory or introductory activities that serve as a foundation for something more significant. The term is commonly used in various contexts, such as sports, events, projects, or academic studies.
In sports, preliminaries represent the qualifying rounds or initial competitions that determine which participants will proceed to the main or final stages. For example, in a tennis tournament, the early rounds can be referred to as the preliminaries. Similarly, in academic studies, preliminaries refer to the preliminary research or background investigation carried out before commencing the main study or project. It involves gathering relevant information, formulating a research question, and planning the study.
In events and performances, preliminaries may include rehearsals, sound checks, or equipment setup before the main event. This ensures that everything is in order and functioning properly. Furthermore, preliminaries can also indicate the essential administrative tasks or paperwork that need to be completed before a particular activity can begin.
Overall, preliminaries encompass the initial stages of a process, providing the necessary preparation, organization, and groundwork for the primary or crucial components that follow. They help lay the groundwork, set the stage, and ensure the smooth progression of a task, event, or project.
All introductory arrangements.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "preliminaries" is derived from the Latin word "praeliminaris", which is a combination of the prefix "prae" meaning "before" and "limen" meaning "threshold" or "limit". The term originally referred to preliminary actions or preparations that take place before the start of a main event or activity. Over time, it has come to be used more broadly to describe introductory or initial steps that precede a more significant action or process.