"Preparatorily" means done or undertaken as a preparation or preliminary measure. Synonyms for this word can include "preliminarily," "preparatively," "antecedently," "beforehand," and "introductorily." Each of these words implies that a particular action is being taken in advance of another. For example, if you are preparing to write a report for work, you may need to conduct research antecedently to ensure that you have all the necessary information. Alternatively, you may want to review the guidelines introductorily to ensure that you understand the requirements for the report. Regardless of which synonym you use, each implies that an action is being taken or a step is being completed in advance of something else.