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preemptive

/pɹiːˈɛmp.tɪv/ · pre·em·pive
adjective
  1. Of or relating to preemption. The government's preemptive measures helped to prevent a potential crisis.
  2. Made so as to deter an anticipated unpleasant situation. The company took preemptive action to address the issue before it escalated.
  3. Of a high-level bid, intended to interfere with an opponent's bidding. The player made a preemptive bid to disrupt the opponent's strategy.
Did you know? The term 'preemptive' is often used in the context of military strategy, where it refers to a preemptive strike or attack, aimed at preventing an anticipated enemy action.
Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 3 lookups Added Jul 31, 2026