Preamble: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'preambulare', meaning 'to walk before'.
• It first appeared in English in the late 14th century, primarily in legal and formal contexts.
• Similar terms can be found in other languages, reflecting similar concepts of introductions or beginnings.

Legal Studies

• In legal documents, a preamble outlines the intention or purpose behind the law or constitution.
• The preamble of the United States Constitution famously begins with 'We the People', setting the stage for the document’s aims.
• Many constitutions around the world include a preamble, emphasizing values like justice or freedom.

Literature

• Authors often use a preamble to provide background information to help readers understand the main narrative.
• It can also serve as a thematic introduction, framing the story or ideas that will follow.
• Notable works, like 'The Divine Comedy', begin with a preamble that establishes the author’s purpose.

Politics

• Preambles in political speeches can set the tone, engaging audiences and outlining key themes.
• They can also provide historical context, helping audiences understand why certain topics are relevant today.
• Famous political figures, like Martin Luther King Jr., used powerful preambles to captivate listeners and draw them into their message.

Music

• In music, a preamble can refer to an introductory section before the main theme or lyrics of a song.
• Many classical compositions begin with a preamble that establishes mood and style before diving into the main piece.
• Songwriters often use a preamble to build tension or anticipation for what’s to come.

Ranked #11,518, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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