Daily Word Box

Install Daily Word Box: tap Share, then Add to Home Screen.

Word

preempt

verb
/ˌpɹiːˈɛmpt/

Meanings

verb

To act before someone else in order to prevent something or gain an advantage.

Visual cue for preempt
verb

To take the place of something planned, so it does not happen at the expected time.

Image generation queued.

Definition

To preempt is to act first in order to prevent something from happening or to gain an advantage.

To preempt means to do something before someone else does, especially to stop a problem or negative event from happening. It often describes taking early action to reduce risk or to control a situation. In politics, business, and everyday life, people preempt issues by preparing or intervening ahead of time.

Examples

  • We held a short meeting to preempt confusion about the new schedule.
  • The company issued a statement early to preempt rumors.
  • She apologized first to preempt an argument.
  • They stocked extra supplies to preempt delays during the storm.