Word of the day - Peremptory

Peremptory is a strong and commanding adjective used to describe actions, orders, or attitudes that leave no room for refusal, debate, or delay. It conveys authority, insistence, or urgency, often with a tone that can feel abrupt or dismissive.

In simple terms, peremptory means insisting on immediate compliance or demanding obedience. A peremptory instruction or command allows no discussion or negotiation, and it often carries an air of authority that cannot be ignored. In behavior or manner, someone peremptory may come across as assertive, decisive, or even domineering.

The word is widely used in legal, professional, and journalistic contexts. In law, for example, a “peremptory challenge” refers to a jury selection process where an attorney can dismiss a potential juror without giving a reason. In everyday writing and commentary, it emphasizes firmness, authority, and decisiveness.


Peremptory is an adjective.

Origin and etymology

The word comes from Latin peremptorius, meaning “decisive, final,” derived from perimere (“to take away, destroy”). It entered English in the late 16th century and has been used to describe commands, actions, and attitudes that are final, non-negotiable, or authoritative.

Example sentences

• The manager issued a peremptory order to complete the report by noon.
  
• His peremptory tone left no room for questions or discussion.
  
• The judge dismissed the objection with a peremptory gesture, signaling the court’s impatience.
  

Why it matters

Using peremptory allows writers and speakers to convey authority, decisiveness, or unyielding insistence in behavior, speech, or actions.

It is particularly useful in journalism, legal writing, and narrative description to highlight situations where commands or attitudes are firm, non-negotiable, and demanding immediate compliance.