preparative

[pri-par-uh-tiv, -pair-]

adjective

1. preparatory.

noun

1. something that prepares.

2. a preparation.

preparative

/ prɪˈpærətɪv /

adjective

1. serving to prepare; preparatory

noun

1. something that prepares

Other Word Forms

• preparatively adverb
• nonpreparative adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of preparative¹

1400–50; late Middle English preparatif < Middle French < Medieval Latin praeparātīvus. See preparation, -ive

Example Sentences

The catch-22 is that while stem cell transplants can prevent this failure, the usual preparative chemotherapy or radiation can cause severe complications or even cancer.

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These preparative mass spectrometers can be used to produce chemical compounds in a new way.

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In the context of her research, an “artifact” is a particular result of the preparative or investigative part of a scientific procedure — i.e., an unnatural one.

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Because the required alkylidyne catalysts have also been greatly improved in terms of activity, functional group tolerance, and user-friendliness, this method constitutes a valuable preparative complement.

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A laugh, if no argument, is a splendid preparative.

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Related Words

• inaugural 
• preparatory