preemptive

American  

[pree-emp-tiv] / priˈɛmp tɪv /

Or pre-emptive

adjective

1. of or relating to preemption.

2. taken as a measure against something possible, anticipated, or feared; preventive; deterrent.

   a preemptive tactic against a ruthless business rival.

3. preempting or possessing the power to preempt; appropriative; privileged.

   a commander's preemptive authority.

4. Bridge. pertaining to, involving, or noting an opening bid or an overcall in a suit that is at an unnecessarily high level and that is essentially a defensive maneuver designed to make communication between one's opponents more difficult.

   a preemptive bid; to give a preemptive response.

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Other Word Forms

• preemptively adverb

Etymology

Origin of preemptive

An Americanism dating back to 1785–95; preempt + -ive

Example Sentences

“I will not wait on events while dangers gather,” he declared to Congress, laying the groundwork for preemptive action.

From Salon • Apr. 8, 2026

Bank Indonesia expects inflation to stay within the 1.5%-3.5% target in 2026-2027 and will strengthen its preemptive monetary policy response while coordinating with the government to keep prices under control.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

Mark Taylor, former head of a Cambodia-based anti-trafficking NGO, said the "preemptive shifting of scam centre resources", including workers, equipment and managers, had been seen ahead of law enforcement sweeps.

From Barron's • Jan. 16, 2026

Because they roamed under the ocean’s surface, the subs were also undetectable and, therefore, less vulnerable than fixed land-based missiles to an enemy preemptive attack.

From Slate • Sep. 16, 2025

Mama had preemptive tears in her eyes when she took it, peeled back the tape, and opened up the paper, careful not to tear the wrapping.

From "The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street" by Karina Yan Glaser