Preemptively is a word that refers to taking action before an event, situation, or problem occurs. Synonyms for this word include proactively, preventatively, pre-emptorily, and anticipatorily. Proactively is used to describe taking action before a situation arises, while preventatively is used to describe taking action to prevent a specific situation from occurring. Pre-emptorily refers to taking action to prevent someone else from taking action. Anticipatorily refers to taking action in anticipation of a particular event or situation. All these words are helpful in conveying the idea of taking action before something happens to avoid negative consequences.