What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
preempt
Example
The company decided to preempt the competition by releasing their new product earlier. [preempt: verb]
Example
The preemptive strike was intended to weaken the enemy's forces before they could attack. [preemptive: adjective]
avert
Example
The quick response from the firefighters helped avert a major disaster. [avert: verb]
Example
The company took steps to avert a financial crisis by cutting costs and increasing revenue. [averting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Avert is more commonly used than preempt in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts, including personal and social situations. Preempt is more specialized and is often used in specific fields such as military or business.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between preempt and avert?
Both preempt and avert can be used in formal and informal contexts, but preempt may be perceived as more formal due to its specialized usage in certain fields.
