pre·emp·tive or pre-emp·tive (pr - mp t v)adj. 1. Of, relating to, or characteristic of preemption. 2. Having or granted by the right of preemption. 3. a. Relating to or constituting a military strike made so as to gain the advantage when an enemy strike is believed to be imminent: a preemptive nuclear attack. b. Undertaken or initiated to deter or prevent an anticipated, usually unpleasant situation or occurrence: The two companies organized a preemptive alliance against a possible takeover by another firm. 4. Having or marked by the power to preempt or take precedence: a preemptive business offer; preemptive authority. 5. Games Relating to or being a bid in bridge at a high level that is intended to interfere with the opponents' bidding. pre·emp tive·ly adv. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Adj. | 1. | preemptive - designed or having the power to deter or prevent an anticipated situation or occurrence; "a preemptive business offer" preventative, preventive - tending to prevent or hinder |
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