as in to seize
to take or make use of under a guise of authority but without actual right
the thoughtless teenagers had preempted front-row seats that were reserved for the guests of honor
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Recent Examples of preempt
Shortly after Colorado lawmakers enacted their AI bill in 2024, Governor Jared Polis (D-Colo.) urged congress to enact federal legislation preempting state regulation of AI.
—
Patrick Gleason, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025
The decision preempts the Trump administration's 2026 budget proposal to cut funding for 988's LGBTQ+ youth and young adult services.
—Khaleda Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 June 2025
City records show that the actor paid $1.3 million for the apartment, preempting a potential bidding war by offering 10 percent over the asking price.
—Kim Velsey, Curbed, 12 June 2025
In their discussion at the time, councilmembers decided the requirement for a citywide vote is preempted by state law.
—Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 6 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for preempt
Patrick Gleason, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025
The decision preempts the Trump administration's 2026 budget proposal to cut funding for 988's LGBTQ+ youth and young adult services.
—Khaleda Rahman, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 June 2025
City records show that the actor paid $1.3 million for the apartment, preempting a potential bidding war by offering 10 percent over the asking price.
—Kim Velsey, Curbed, 12 June 2025
In their discussion at the time, councilmembers decided the requirement for a citywide vote is preempted by state law.
—Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 6 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for preempt
Recent Examples of Synonyms for preempt
Verb
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The Astros did not seize it, bypassing infielder Brice Matthews in favor of journeymen veterans Cooper Hummel and Luis Guillorme.—
Chandler Rome,
New York Times,
16 June 2025
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Creators are making money via social media and e-commerce platforms every day, so there’s no reason why freelancers can’t seize the opportunity as well.—
Chelsea Tobin,
Forbes.com,
16 June 2025
Verb
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Every member of the Fulbright Program’s board resigned after accusing the Trump Administration of usurping its authority and canceling scholarships for nearly 200 U.S. professors and researchers.—
Danielle Chemtob,
Forbes.com,
12 June 2025
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In that case, filed in federal court in the District of Columbia, the judge said the president’s attempt to use a federal agency to enact a proof-of-citizenship requirement for voting usurped the power of states and Congress, which at the time was considering legislation that would do just that.—
Leah Willingham,
Chicago Tribune,
6 June 2025
Verb
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The Pennsylvania State Game Commission confiscated the wildcats as part of an ongoing investigation.—
Greta Cross,
USA Today,
12 June 2025
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Police would have the power to ticket, impound vehicles, confiscate personal property, revoke licenses and levy heavy fines.—
Paul Vallas,
Chicago Tribune,
11 June 2025
Verb
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In the few months since its launch, JD.com has grabbed 7.5% of China’s food-delivery market after its daily meal orders reached 20 million on May 13, according to a May 14 research note from Blue Lotus Capital Advisors.—
Yue Wang,
Forbes.com,
18 June 2025
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To help keep your home safe (and know when your Prime Day packages arrive), grab a Ring Battery Doorbell with Indoor Cam for under $150.—
Laura Lu,
Parents,
17 June 2025
Verb
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The Twins spent all day playing from behind after starter Simeon Woods Richardson gave up hits to two of the first three batters and Jeffers airmailed a throw into the outfield trying to nab Christian Yelich stealing second.—
Betsy Helfand,
Twin Cities,
21 June 2025
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And like the most recent case out of Iowa, stealing someone else’s flag to burn could also be criminal, the organization said.—
Saleen Martin,
USA Today,
21 June 2025
Verb
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Alexander Bublik captured his first ATP Tour title of the 2025 campaign by downing Daniil Medvedev in straight sets, to claim the Halle Open for a second time in three years.—
Leon Imber,
New York Times,
22 June 2025
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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claimed that the administration acted under the War Powers Act by notifying members of Congress after the strikes.—
Annabella Rosciglione,
The Washington Examiner,
22 June 2025
Verb
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There, stairs lead up to a second floor that can be used for storage or converted into additional space for guests.—
Tori Latham,
Robb Report,
24 June 2025
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Boos rained down much of the evening, with frustration directed at the referees and the Checkers’ inability to convert on their powerplay opportunities.—
Hunter Bailey,
Charlotte Observer,
24 June 2025
Verb
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Balloon animals and face painting kept children occupied, as did an axe-throwing exhibition.—
Hank Beckman,
Chicago Tribune,
17 June 2025
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The royal design that once occupied solely libraries, studies, and lodges has found new fans By Anna Elise Anderson June 17, 2025 All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors.—
Anna Elise Anderson,
Architectural Digest,
17 June 2025
Cite this Entry
“Preempt.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/preempt. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.
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