: controlling a situation by making things happen or by preparing for possible future problems
A survey was given out to customers so that the company could take proactive steps to improve their service.
The city is taking a proactive approach to fighting crime by hiring more police officers.
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“Proactive.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/proactive. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.
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