The word "pre-empted" means to take control or to thwart something before it can happen. There are several synonyms for this word, including forestall, intercept, and preempt. Other words that can be used as synonyms for "pre-empted" include thwart, preclude, block, and hinder. These words all describe actions that are taken to stop something from happening before it can occur. Some additional synonyms for "pre-empted" include impede, obstruct, and prevent. These words are useful when trying to describe a situation where someone takes action to stop something before it can get any further.