pre-empt
verb
[ priːˈɛmpt ]
• take action in order to prevent (an anticipated event) happening; forestall.
• "the second session will focus on policies to pre-empt problems"
• acquire or appropriate (something) in advance.
• "many tables were already pre-empted by family parties"
Similar:
commandeer,
take possession of,
occupy,
seize,
arrogate,
appropriate,
take over,
take,
acquire,
secure,
reserve,
• make a pre-emptive bid.
pre-empt
noun
• a pre-emptive bid.
Origin:
mid 19th century: back-formation from pre-emption.
