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Preemptive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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preemptive

[prɪˈɛm(p)tɪv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

military strategy

Done as a measure to prevent something from happening or as a precautionary step, usually referring to military actions taken before an enemy attack.

Synonyms

precautionary, preventive, proactive.

Examples of usage

  • Preemptive strikes are often controversial in international relations.
  • The country took preemptive action to protect its borders.
  • The preemptive attack caught the enemy by surprise.
Context #2 | Adjective

general

Anticipating a situation and taking action before it occurs, usually to gain an advantage or avoid a negative consequence.

Synonyms

anticipatory, precautionary, prophylactic.

Examples of usage

  • His preemptive decision to invest in the new technology paid off handsomely.
  • She made a preemptive apology to smooth things over before the conflict escalated.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Military Strategy

  • Preemptive actions in warfare aim to neutralize threats before they can materialize.
  • Historically, this strategy has been debated, especially regarding the ethics of launching first strikes.
  • Famous examples include Israel’s 1967 preemptive strike during the Six-Day War.

Psychology

  • In behavioral science, preemptive strategies can help manage anxiety by addressing potential threats before they escalate.
  • This approach can improve coping mechanisms by reducing surprises and uncertainties.
  • Proactive problem-solving is linked to better mental health outcomes.

Business

  • Companies use preemptive measures, like market research, to anticipate consumer needs and stay ahead of competitors.
  • Risk management plans often incorporate preemptive actions to mitigate financial losses.
  • Effective leadership frequently involves anticipating challenges and acting before they arise.

Technology

  • In cybersecurity, preemptive measures include firewalls and antivirus programs that protect systems before attacks occur.
  • Software updates often act as preemptive safeguards against security vulnerabilities.
  • The concept of preemptive multitasking allows a computer to manage multiple processes efficiently, ensuring smooth operation.

Origin of 'preemptive'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'praeemptio', meaning 'to take before'.
  • It has been used in English since the early 19th century, mostly in legal and military contexts.
  • The modern use relates heavily to the idea of acting ahead of time.

The word 'preemptive' originated from the Latin word 'praemunire', meaning 'to anticipate'. It first appeared in the mid-19th century and gained popularity in military and strategic contexts. The concept of preemptive action has been debated in various fields, from warfare to business, as a means of avoiding threats or gaining an advantage.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,508, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.