proactivity

American  

[proh-ak-tiv-i-tee] / ˌproʊ ækˈtɪv ɪ ti /

Also proactiveness

noun

1. the act, characteristic, or habit of thinking and acting so as to prepare for, intervene in, or control expected events, especially negative or challenging ones; initiative.

   Thanks again for your proactivity; you solved this problem before I even knew there was a problem!

   In a fast-paced, multithreat online environment, proactivity and stability are the cornerstones of good cybersecurity strategy.

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Etymology

Origin of proactivity

proactiv(e) ( def. ) + -ity ( def. )

Example Sentences

While the taoiseach said he appreciated the prime minister's "proactivity" in resetting relations with the Irish government, after years of difficulties with the Conservatives during Brexit negotiations.

From BBC • Mar. 6, 2025

For now, however, the grimmest of eventualities may have been avoided—all thanks to a mixture of luck and Icelandic proactivity.

From National Geographic • Dec. 19, 2023

As Alexa continues to struggle to keep users engaged, adding some proactivity to routines could make them more useful to more people.

From The Verge • Jul. 20, 2022

The proactivity of the organization, the enterprise, rests with individual clans.

From Slate • Jun. 16, 2018

The three-course menu devised in collaboration with Salad for President’s Julia Sherman drew a collection of stylists, artists, writers and editors seeking quiet proactivity.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 16, 2017