Meaning & use

peremptory

adjective·Advanced

Last updated

Insisting on immediate attention or obedience, especially in a way that allows no argument or refusal.

See it in a sentence

The general issued a peremptory order for the troops to withdraw at once.

Her peremptory tone made it clear she wasn't interested in discussion.

A note on using this word

In law, a "peremptory challenge" lets a lawyer dismiss a potential juror without giving a reason.

Words with a similar meaning

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

Another way to use it

2. adjective

In law, allowing no refusal or contradiction, as in the right to reject something without explanation.

The defense used a peremptory challenge to remove the juror.

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “peremptory”, then compare your use with the examples above.

Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.