Premeditated: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe actions, especially crimes, that were thought out and decided upon before being carried out. This word often has a negative connotation.

• The jury found him guilty of premeditated murder.
• Her actions were premeditated and not just a spur-of-the-moment mistake.

Refers to actions or events that were decided upon and arranged beforehand. It is neutral in tone and used in both positive and negative contexts.

• They planned their vacation months in advance.
• The attack was planned and executed with precision.

Used when describing actions that are carefully planned and executed with a specific outcome in mind. Often implies a level of manipulation or selfish intent.

• Her approach was cold and calculated, aimed at getting exactly what she wanted.
• The company's calculated risk paid off in the long run.

Describes actions done on purpose, with intention behind them. It does not carry the negative connotation as strongly as 'premeditated' or 'calculated' might.

• His mistake was intentional, not accidental.
• The art piece was intentionally provocative.

Use in legal or formal contexts to describe actions that were planned in advance, often with negative connotations such as crime.

• The murder was deemed premeditated by the court

Best used when referring to actions taken with full awareness and intent, often emphasizing careful thought or consideration.

• His slow and deliberate speech showed his careful consideration of each word

Ideal for general use to describe actions done on purpose, without necessarily implying thorough planning or negative intent.

• She gave the donation as an intentional act of kindness

Suitable for situations where an action is carefully planned with a specific aim in mind, sometimes perceived as cold or manipulative.

• Her actions were calculated to elicit sympathy from the board