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Preempted: meaning, definitions and examples

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preempted

 

[ priːˈɛmptɪd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

preventive action

To preempt means to take action in order to prevent an anticipated event from occurring. It can involve making a decision or taking steps that forestall the possibility of something happening. This term is often used in various contexts, such as legal settings, where a party may act to prevent a lawsuit from proceeding. Preemptive actions are often strategic, aiming to gain an advantage or avoid a negative outcome.

Synonyms

forestall, intercept, prevent

Examples of usage

  • The government preempted the protests by deploying extra police.
  • The company preempted competition with an innovative product launch.
  • They preempted the discussion by announcing the decision early.

Translations

Translations of the word "preempted" in other languages:

🇵🇹 preemptado

🇮🇳 पूर्ववत्

🇩🇪 vorweggenommen

🇮🇩 didahului

🇺🇦 перехоплений

🇵🇱 przejęty

🇯🇵 先取りされた

🇫🇷 préempté

🇪🇸 preemptado

🇹🇷 öncelikli

🇰🇷 선점된

🇸🇦 تم استباقه

🇨🇿 předběhnutý

🇸🇰 predbehnutý

🇨🇳 抢先

🇸🇮 presežen

🇮🇸 fyrirbyggt

🇰🇿 алдын ала

🇬🇪 წინასწარ გაწვდილი

🇦🇿 öncədən

🇲🇽 preemptado

Etymology

The word 'preempt' originates from the Latin 'praeemere', which means 'to take before'. This term was adopted into Middle English from the Latin form through the Old French word 'préempter'. In its evolution through the languages, the meaning has consistently reflected the notion of taking action or making a decision in advance to avoid a consequence. The use of 'preempt' in legal contexts became prominent in the 20th century, particularly in discussions surrounding property law and rights. Over time, the term has broadened to encompass various fields, including business, military strategy, and public policy, emphasizing the proactive nature of taking measures before a situation develops.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,085, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.