pre-emptive strike

Friendly

Explanation of "Pre-emptive Strike"

Definition:
A "pre-emptive strike" is a surprise attack that you launch against an enemy or opponent to prevent them from attacking you first. The idea is to take action before the other person has a chance to do something that could harm you.

Usage Instructions:

• Part of Speech: Noun
• Context: This term is often used in military or political discussions but can also be applied in competitive situations, like business or sports.

Example Sentence:

• "The country decided to carry out a pre-emptive strike to stop the threat from its neighbor before it could escalate."

Advanced Usage:

In a more complex context, a "pre-emptive strike" can be used in discussions about strategy, where one party takes action to secure an advantage or to protect itself from potential future threats.

Word Variants:

• Preempt: (verb) To take action in advance to prevent something.
  • Example: "They decided to preempt any further negotiations by making their offer first."
• Preemption: (noun) The act of preventing something by taking action beforehand.
  • Example: "The preemption of the competitor's launch gave them a significant market advantage."

Different Meanings:

While "pre-emptive strike" primarily refers to a military action, it can also be used metaphorically: - In business, it can refer to making a decision or taking action to prevent competition. - In conversations, it may refer to addressing a concern before it becomes an issue.

Synonyms:

• Surprise attack
• Preventive strike
• Proactive measure

Related Idioms:

• "Strike first": To take action before someone else can.
  • Example: "In negotiations, it's often best to strike first to set the terms."

Phrasal Verbs:

While there aren't specific phrasal verbs that directly relate to "pre-emptive strike," you might consider: - "Head off": To prevent something from happening by taking action. - Example: "They tried to head off criticism by addressing the issue early."

Summary:

A "pre-emptive strike" is a strategic move taken to avoid a potential threat.

Academic

Noun

1. a surprise attack that is launched in order to prevent the enemy from doing it to you