prelim
word
Definition
An informal term for 'preliminary', usually referring to an initial stage of a test, exam, or competition before the main event.
Usage & Nuances
'Prelim' is casual/slang, mainly in academic and sporting contexts. Common in university exams ('PhD prelims') or sports ('prelim match'). Not used in formal writing. 'Preliminary' is the formal word.
Spanish: examen preliminar - eliminatoria (deporte)Portuguese (BR): prova preliminar - eliminatória (esporte)Portuguese (PT): prova preliminar - eliminatória (desporto)Chinese (Simplified): 预赛 - 预考Chinese (Traditional): 預賽 - 預考Hindi: प्रारंभिक परीक्षा - प्रारंभिक मुकाबलाArabic: اختبار تمهيدي - مباراة تمهيدية
Example Sentences
The prelim exam is next week.
basic
She passed the prelim and moved to the finals.
basic
Did you study for your prelim?
basic
The fighters are warming up for their prelim bout.
natural
I was so nervous before the prelim, but it went better than I expected.
natural
Most students spend months preparing for the prelim.
natural