Preempt

/ˌpɹiːˈɛmpt/ · verb

Meaning

(transitive) To appropriate first..

Definitions by Sense

1. (transitive) To appropriate first.
2. (transitive) To displace or take the place of (by having higher precedence, etc).
3. (transitive) To prevent or beat to the punch, to forestall an expected occurrence by acting first.
4. (transitive) To secure (land, etc.) by the right of preemption (purchasing before others, e.g. land because one already occupies it).
5. (bridge, intransitive) To make a preemptive bid at bridge.
6. (bridge) A preemptive bid.

Example Sentences

He preempted that hill to be its king.

When they have preempted their ground [=their particular teat] they want to keep it, so you often see a fight, but see that there is only one claim made and then the old sow will not be disturbed. When once ranged they will always seek the same place.

[...] the losers complaining that their party may see another popular issue preempted by what one of them called "born-again Democratic fiscal conservatives."

Floppy disks were preempted by CDs.

Similarly, in order to realize fully the benefits to consumers of increased competition in telecommunications, the Administration proposes to preempt state entry regulation for provision of telecommunications and information services.

Leah and Jenny's friendship had happened upon them quickly because of a shared harrowing experience that had preempted the usual years of trust building .

A German move from the west had preempted them. By nightfall the whole Sidi Rezegh Ridge was in German occupation.

By his statement, the Secretary-General had effectively preempted the usual frustrating debates over questions of fact and law.

Synonyms for preempt

Antonyms for preempt

Related Words

Word Forms

• preempts
• preempting
• preempted
• pre-empt
• preëmpt
• præempt

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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