preemption — the action of taking something for oneself before others can claim it; the right to buy or take something before others
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the action of taking something for oneself before others can claim it; the right to buy or take something before others
Pronunciation (IPA): /priˈɛmpʃən/
Example Sentences
- The landlord's preemption clause means he can buy the apartment before any outside buyer.
- My mom has preemption rights over the last piece of cake - it's an unwritten family law!
- The state law was struck down due to federal preemption in immigration matters.
preemption
NOUN[/priˈɛmpʃən/]
the action of taking something for oneself before others can claim it; the right to buy or take something before others

a determined buyer quickly hands a signed contract and check to the real estate agent at the front door. The agent accepts the paperwork with a satisfied smile as the buyer gets there first. Behind them, several other interested buyers arrive just moments later with their own contracts ready. The late-arriving buyers look disappointed as they realize someone has already secured the purchase rights. The agent politely explains to the waiting buyers that the property has been claimed. the action of taking something for oneself before others can claim it
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'preemere' meaning 'to buy before others,' combining 'prae' (before) and 'emere' (to buy). Originally referred to the legal right to purchase something before others had the opportunity.
Breakdown
pre- (before/in advance) + empt- (to buy/take) + -ion (noun suffix indicating action or result)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The landlord's preemption clause means he can buy the apartment before any outside buyer.”
“My mom has preemption rights over the last piece of cake - it's an unwritten family law!”
“The state law was struck down due to federal preemption in immigration matters.”
“Netflix's preemption of popular shows means other streaming services can't bid on them.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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