preempt
UK: priːˈɛmpt | US: priˈɛmpt
vt. to take action to prevent something from happening or to replace it
vt. to acquire or appropriate something before others
vt. (law) to seize property or rights before others can claim them
The word preempt originates from the Latin praeemere (to buy beforehand), combining prae- (before) and emere (to take). It entered English via legal terminology, where it described the act of claiming land or rights before others. Over time, its meaning broadened to include any proactive action to prevent or replace something. The logic reflects a competitive or strategic "first-mover" advantage.
The company preempted its competitors by launching the product early.
The government preempted the land for public use.
She preempted criticism by addressing the issue upfront.
The new policy preempts any further disputes over resources.
The TV show was preempted by a special news broadcast.