The meaning of PREEMPTIVE is of or relating to preemption. How to use preemptive in a sentence.

PRE-EMPTIVE meaning: 1. If something is pre-emptive, it is done before other people can act, especially to prevent them…. Learn more.

Definition of preemptive adjective in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Mar 18, 2026 · preemptive (comparative more preemptive, superlative most preemptive) Of or relating to preemption.

Undertaken or intended 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.

pre-emptive, adj. & n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary

PREEMPTIVE definition: of or relating to preemption. See examples of preemptive used in a sentence.

A preemptive attack or strike is intended to weaken or damage an enemy or opponent, for example, by destroying their weapons before they can do any harm. A preemptive strike against a sovereign …

The country took preemptive action against the perceived enemy. a preemptive attack/strike by the army

A preemptive action is made to keep some other action from being taken. Before you could be accused of eating the whole cake, you decided to make a preemptive apology, which was met with awkward …