preemptive

• preëmptive
• pre-emptive
• præemptive (archaic)

From preempt + -ive.

• IPA^(key): /pɹiːˈɛmp.tɪv/

• Audio (US):

  (file)

preemptive (comparative more preemptive, superlative most preemptive)

1. Of or relating to preemption.
2. Made so as to deter an anticipated unpleasant situation.

   a preemptive attack on the enemy

   • 2023 January 10, “The Effects of Extreme Risk Protection Orders”, in RAND Corporation‎^[1], archived from the original on 25 April 2025:

     Extreme risk protection order (ERPO) laws, sometimes known as gun violence restraining order or "red-flag" laws, are risk-based, temporary, and preemptive protective orders that authorize the removal of firearms from individuals determined to be at risk for committing gun violence against others or themselves. With ERPO laws in place, law enforcement, family members, or medical professionals can petition a court to temporarily restrict a person's access to firearms if they believe that person is at risk of hurting him or herself or others.

   • 2026, “Unraveling The Democratic Era?”, in V-Dem Institute‎^[2], archived from the original on 17 March 2026, page 13:

     The practice of self-censorship serves as a preemptive measure to avoid direct censorship or persecution when governments in autocratizing countries tighten their grip.

3. (bridge, of a high-level bid) Intended to interfere with an opponent's bidding.

• (very rare) postemptive