Definition
Peremptory means putting an end to all debate, discussion or refusal; conveying a sense of urgency or command that brooks no contradiction or delay.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Adjective.
Synonyms
imperative, commanding, dictatorial, authoritative, final, categorical, uncompromising, conclusive, absolute, firm, resolute.
Antonyms
flexible, tentative, negotiable, submissive, indecisive, lenient, tolerant, adjustable, compliant, yielding.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | None |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | peremptory |
| Adverb | peremptorily |
Example Sentences
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The peremptory order from the general commanded the troops to advance without any hesitation, leaving no room for any doubts or second-guessing.
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The lawyer’s peremptory statement left no doubt in the minds of the jury that his client was innocent, forcing the prosecution to rethink their position.
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The boss’s peremptory tone intimidated most of the employees, causing them to fall in line with his orders without question or objection.
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The judge’s peremptory dismissal of the case shocked everyone in the courtroom as it was seen as an abrupt and unexpected end to the legal proceedings.
Usage
The word “peremptory” is an adjective that is used to describe something that expresses an order or command that must be obeyed without question or delay. It is a word that is often associated with an authoritarian or assertive attitude, as it conveys a tone of urgency that brooks no contradiction or hesitation.
The word “peremptory” comes from the Latin word “peremptorius,” which means “deadly” or “destructive.” The root word “emptor” means “buyer” or “purchaser,” and is related to the idea of a person who has the power to make a decisive and final decision.
One common prefix that is often added to “peremptory” is “im-,” which turns the word into “imperemptory,” meaning even more commanding or final. Other common variations of the word include “peremptorily,” which is an adverb that describes a peremptory manner or attitude, and “peremption,” which is a legal term that refers to the expiration of a legal right or claim.
Overall, “peremptory” is a powerful and assertive word that is frequently used in legal, military, or managerial contexts. It conveys a sense of absolute authority or control, and implies that the speaker has the power to make a decision that will have a profound impact on the situation at hand. It is a word that should be used sparingly and only in appropriate circumstances, as it can be seen as aggressive or confrontational in certain contexts.