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Preliminary vs Preemptive - What's the difference?

preliminary | preemptive |

As adjectives the difference between preliminary and preemptive

is that preliminary is in preparation for the main matter; initial, introductory, preparatory while preemptive is of or relating to preemption.

As a noun preliminary

is a preparation for a main matter; an introduction.

preliminary

Alternative forms

* (archaic)

Adjective

(-)
  • in preparation for the main matter; initial, introductory, preparatory
  • These are just the preliminary results.
  • *
  • And then, after a few preliminary tries, the whole farm burst out into 'Beasts of England' in tremendous unison.

    Antonyms

    * definitive, final

    Derived terms

    * preliminarily * preliminary results * preliminary considerations

    Noun

    (preliminaries)
  • A preparation for a main matter; an introduction
  • Any of a series of sports events that determine the finalists
  • A relatively minor contest that precedes a major one, especially in boxing
  • preemptive

    English

    Alternative forms

    * * pre-emptive

    Adjective

    (en adjective)
  • Of or relating to preemption.
  • Made so as to deter an anticipated unpleasant situation.
  • (bridge, of a high-level bid) Intended to interfere with an opponent's bidding.
  • Derived terms

    * preemptive strike * preemptively