Brouillon vs. ébauche vs. version préliminaire
In French, 'brouillon', 'ébauche' and 'version préliminaire' are terms often used to describe an early version of a written work. Although they are closely related, each term conveys a slightly different stage and type of drafting.
Brouillon
A 'brouillon' refers to the very first draft of a document, often characterized by its raw format. It is where ideas are first laid out, without much concern for organization or polish.
J'ai écrit un brouillon de mon poème sur un morceau de papier.
(I wrote a draft of my poem on a piece of paper.)
Le brouillon de son discours était plein de ratures.
(The draft of his speech was full of strikeouts.)
Ébauche
An 'ébauche' is a sketch or outline and represents a slightly more structured attempt than a 'brouillon'. It implies that there has been some refinement of the initial idea, but is far from the final product.
L'écrivain travaillait sur l'ébauche d'un nouveau chapitre.
(The writer was working on an outline of a new chapter.)
Son ébauche de tableau promettait déjà une œuvre magnifique.
(Her sketch for the painting already promised a magnificent work.)
Version préliminaire
A 'version préliminaire' refers to a preliminary version that has undergone several revisions. This stage is closer to the final version, but still open to change. It suggests a more complete work in progress.
La version préliminaire du rapport a été partagée avec l'équipe pour commentaire.
(The preliminary version of the report was shared with the team for comments.)
Après quelques ajustements, la version préliminaire du logiciel fut prête pour test.
(After some adjustments, the preliminary version of the software was ready for testing.)
Summary
'Brouillon', 'ébauche' and 'version préliminaire' are key terms in French that describe different stages in the production of written work. From the very first, unpolished draft ('brouillon'), to a more structured outline ('ébauche'), to an almost finished but still revisable document ('version préliminaire'), these terms reflect the evolving nature of writing and creation.