preempt

/priˈɛmpt/
verb
  1. To take action in order to prevent something from happening, especially to stop someone else from doing something first.
    • The company launched a new product early to preempt its competitors.
    • She called the customer to preempt any complaints about the delay.
    • The government passed a law to preempt potential security threats.
  2. To replace or take the place of something, especially a scheduled television or radio program.
    • The network decided to preempt the sitcom for a live concert.
    • A special presidential address preempted the baseball game.
    • The breaking news report preempted the regular evening show.
  3. In bridge, to make a high bid to interfere with the opponents' bidding.
    • He decided to preempt with a bid of three spades.
    • She preempted at the first opportunity, catching the other team off guard.
    • Experienced players often preempt to disrupt the opponents' communication.
Antonyms
What does "preempt" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean