Preamble
mediumNeutral tonePREE-am-bul
noun
Definition
an introductory statement; a preliminary preface
Memory hook
PREAMBLE = 'pre' + 'amble' (to walk before). Picture a herald who 'ambles' onstage BEFORE the king to announce him: the warm-up walk-on.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“After a lengthy preamble, the speaker finally reached his main point.”
“The treaty's preamble laid out the shared principles before any specific clauses.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“After a lengthy ______, the speaker finally reached his main point.”
Show answer
preamble
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Preamble is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "introduction" or "preface" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "epilogue".
Related GRE Words
digression
a temporary departure from the main subject in speech or writing
admonish
To warn or reprimand someone firmly
allude
To suggest or call attention to indirectly; to hint at
allusion
An indirect reference, especially to something in literature or history
apprise
To inform or tell someone about something
articulate
Having or showing the ability to speak fluently and coherently
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