Translation guide
The English word 'preliminary' is used to describe something that comes before the main event, action, or stage, often as a preparation or initial step. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives, adverbs, and nouns depending on the context, such as formal procedures, sports matches, or tentative plans.
Describing something that happens or exists before the main part, often as preparation.
Used as a prefix or noun meaning 'preparatory' or 'reserve'. Common in compound words like 予備調査 (preliminary investigation) or 予備知識 (background knowledge).
We conducted a preliminary investigation.
Means 'prior' or 'beforehand'. Often used as a prefix in formal contexts, such as 事前協議 (preliminary consultation) or 事前準備 (advance preparation).
An adjective meaning 'preliminary' or 'tentative'. Used in formal or technical contexts.
Refers to introductory remarks or a preamble. Often used in speech or writing to set the stage.
Means 'preparatory work' or 'groundwork'. Emphasizes the practical preparation before a main task.
Referring to an early stage of a tournament or competition that determines who advances.
The standard term for 'preliminary round' or 'qualifying round' in sports and competitions.
Indicating that something is subject to change or is an initial version.
An initial test or screening before a more thorough one.
予備 (yobi) emphasizes preparation or reserve, often used for things like knowledge or investigations. 事前 (jizen) means 'prior' and is used for actions done beforehand. 暫定 (zantei) means 'tentative' and is used for plans or results that are not final.
Preliminary knowledge is necessary.
We need to do some preliminary research.
Let's have a preliminary meeting beforehand.
This is a preliminary conclusion.
前置きは省いて本題に入りましょう。
Let's skip the preliminary remarks and get to the main topic.
下準備が大切だ。
Preliminary groundwork is important.
He was eliminated in the preliminary round.
Specifically refers to a 'primary election' in politics.
The preliminary election results are out.
Means 'tentative' or 'provisional'. Used for plans, schedules, or results that are not yet finalized.
We will inform you of the preliminary schedule.
A prefix meaning 'temporary' or 'tentative'. Common in words like 仮契約 (preliminary contract) or 仮決定 (tentative decision).
This is a preliminary plan.
Refers to 'breaking news' or 'preliminary report', often used for early election returns or news flashes.
Preliminary election results have come in.
A 'preliminary examination', often used in academic or professional certification contexts.
He passed the preliminary exam.
A 'pre-test' or 'preliminary test', often used in educational settings.
Please take the preliminary test.
事前に連絡してください。
Please contact us beforehand.
Present a preliminary draft.
The English word 'preliminary' does not have a single direct equivalent in Japanese. Using 予備的 in all contexts can sound unnatural. Choose the appropriate term based on the specific meaning (preparation, prior, tentative, etc.).
The preliminary results are promising.