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

happening or done before the main thing

plural of preliminary

(European Union law) A decision of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) on the interpretation of European Union law, made at the request of a court or tribunal of a European Union member state.

(education) An examination that usually qualifies a student to continue studies at a higher level.

plural of preliminary examination

plural of preliminary ruling

plural of preliminary injunction

(law) A court order prohibiting a party to litigation from carrying on a course of action until a trial has determined whether the course of action is proper.