preliminary preliminary /priːˈlɪməˌnɛri/

adjective

1. () Denoting an action or event preceding or in preparation for something more important  ( preliminary )
   denoting an action or event preceding or in preparation for something more important
    A preliminary investigation
   a preliminary investigation
   

noun

1. Something that serves as a preceding event or introduces what follows  ( preliminary , overture , prelude )
   something that serves as a preceding event or introduces what follows
    Training is a necessary preliminary to employment
   training is a necessary preliminary to employment
    Drinks were the overture to dinner
   drinks were the overture to dinner
   
2. A minor match preceding the main event  ( prelim [Informal] , preliminary )
   a minor match preceding the main event