Definition:
The word "preemptive" is an adjective that describes actions taken to prevent something from happening before it actually occurs. It is often used in situations where someone tries to stop a potential problem or situation before it arises.
In more advanced contexts, "preemptive" can be used in discussions about military strategy or healthcare, where actions are taken to prevent threats or health issues before they develop fully.
While "preemptive" generally refers to preventing something, in some contexts, it can refer to actions taken that are intended to be proactive rather than reactive.
While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly incorporate "preemptive," you might encounter phrases like "take the initiative," which conveys a similar meaning of acting early to prevent issues.
In summary, "preemptive" is a useful word that describes actions taken to prevent potential problems or situations from occurring.