To take action to prevent (an anticipated event or action) from happening; to prevent or forestall. This can involve acting before someone else does, or to supersede another's claim or right. It implies taking an action that would prevent something else from happening, or to supplant something or someone with something else. The core of pre-empting is taking the initiative, acting in anticipation of another's move to secure a favorable outcome, or nullify an adverse one.
Pre-empt meaning with examples
- The company decided to pre-empt a potential price war by announcing a discount program, hoping to discourage competitors from lowering their prices. This move allowed them to maintain market share and protect their profit margins, demonstrating a proactive business strategy to control market forces.
- Worried about the impact of negative publicity, the campaign decided to pre-emptively release the potentially damaging information, hoping to control the narrative and mitigate the fallout before it could spread and be exaggerated by opponents.
- Recognizing the vulnerability in the company's online security, the IT team took the initiative to pre-empt a potential cyber attack by implementing new security protocols, thereby ensuring the privacy of customers data and business continuity.
- During the chess match, the experienced player chose to pre-empt his opponent's anticipated move by advancing his queen early, putting their position at a clear disadvantage, showcasing their strategic depth.
- The government decided to pre-empt a public protest by announcing policy changes that addressed the protesters' core concerns, showcasing political maneuvering and willingness to negotiate, thus avoiding a disruptive event.
Pre-empt Crossword Answers
7 Letters
PREEMPT
13 Letters
PREEMPTIVEBID