noun
preliminary skirmish; minor clash before a main battle
Military or strategic term for a small-scale engagement that precedes a larger conflict. Often used metaphorically.
両軍の前哨戦が国境付近で始まった。
A preliminary skirmish between the two armies began near the border.
noun
Commonly used in sports, politics, and business for a contest or event that serves as a lead-up to a more important one.
決勝前の前哨戦として、両チームは練習試合を行った。
As a warm-up match before the final, the two teams played a practice game.
来月の本選挙に向けた前哨戦が各地で繰り広げられている。
Preliminary encounters leading up to next month's main election are unfolding across the country.