preparativo

Preparativo is a term used in Portuguese and, in related Romance languages, in forms such as preparativo, preparatorio or preparatoire, to denote something that prepares or a preparatory step. It can function as an adjective meaning preparatory and as a noun referring to preparations or to a stage designed to enable a subsequent process or event. The exact sense depends on the domain, but the core idea is anticipation and readiness.

In scientific and industrial contexts, preparativo or preparative terminology describes methods and procedures aimed at producing material quantities rather than merely analyzing samples. Preparative chromatography, preparative synthesis and preparative separations are examples where the objective is to obtain a purified compound or substance at a usable scale, distinguishing them from analytical techniques that focus on measurement or characterization of small samples.

In education, a preparatório (or preparatório, preparatório course) is a program intended to ready students for a specific examination or admission process, such as university entrance tests or civil service contests. These courses emphasize intensive study, practice, and guidance to improve performance on the target assessment.

In military and planning contexts, preparativos refer to actions and arrangements carried out before an operation. This includes logistical planning, resource mobilization, training, and other measures aimed at ensuring readiness and effectiveness of subsequent actions.

Etymology and cognates reflect its roots in Latin, with preparativus giving rise to forms in Portuguese, Spanish (preparativo), and Italian (preparatorio). The common thread across usages is the notion of preparation and early steps intended to enable a later, more decisive phase.