preemptive

comparative more preemptive · superlative most preemptive · alternative preëmptive · alternative pre-emptive · alternative archaic præemptive

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

      a preemptive attack on the enemy

      2 more examples

      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.

      2023 January 10, “The Effects of Extreme Risk Protection Orders”, in RAND Corporation, archived from the original on 25 Apr 2025

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

      2026, “Unraveling The Democratic Era?”, in V-Dem Institute, archived from the original on 17 Mar 2026, page 13

      Synonyms: preemptory

   2. bridgeIntended to interfere with an opponent's bidding.

      Synonyms: preemptory