Preparatory/prɪˈpærətɔːri/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Active Preparation Used when actively planning or organizing before an event. They conducted preparatory research for the seminar. Pro Tip 2/3Often Formal Common in formal or official situations, like meetings. The committee will schedule a preparatory session next week. Pro Tip 3/3Not Instant Suggests a process over time, not something done quickly. Preparatory steps were taken months before the launch.