Definition of peremptorynext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word peremptory distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of peremptory are domineering, imperative, imperious, and masterful. While all these words mean "tending to impose one's will on others," peremptory implies an abrupt dictatorial manner coupled with an unwillingness to brook disobedience or dissent.

given a peremptory dismissal

When is domineering a more appropriate choice than peremptory?

Although the words domineering and peremptory have much in common, domineering suggests an overbearing or arbitrary manner and an obstinate determination to enforce one's will.

children controlled by domineering parents

Where would imperative be a reasonable alternative to peremptory?

The words imperative and peremptory are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, imperative implies peremptoriness arising more from the urgency of the situation than from an inherent will to dominate.

an imperative appeal for assistance

When might imperious be a better fit than peremptory?

While the synonyms imperious and peremptory are close in meaning, imperious implies a commanding nature or manner and often suggests arrogant assurance.

an imperious executive used to getting his own way

When would masterful be a good substitute for peremptory?

The words masterful and peremptory can be used in similar contexts, but masterful implies a strong personality and ability to act authoritatively.

her masterful personality soon dominated the movement

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of peremptory The genius of the people will ill brook the inquisitive and peremptory spirit of excise laws. Marie Sapirie, Forbes.com, 25 Aug. 2025 The administration’s radical and peremptory elimination of U.S. foreign assistance removed a lever of American influence and telegraphed a level of indifference that will not go unnoticed. Kori Schake, Foreign Affairs, 24 June 2025 The lawyers accused prosecutors of using seven of their nine peremptory strikes to remove Black jurors from the prospective panel before the final jury was selected. Rolling Stone, 16 June 2025 Because of that, the prosecutor might exercise a peremptory strike. The Conversation, 11 Apr. 2024 See All Example Sentences for peremptory
Recent Examples of Synonyms for peremptory
Adjective
  • As urbanist scholar Federico Cugurullo and geography researchers Isobel Lee and Rebecca Weir found when speaking with people involved in The Line between 2022 and 2024, the project represented a strange mixture of western science fiction aesthetics and authoritarian ambitions.
    Livia Gershon, JSTOR Daily, 1 May 2026
  • But under the authoritarian military regime that comes to power after a coup, being a musician is dangerous, and the Aguirres’ band, Río Babel, becomes an accidental voice of rebellion.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 1 May 2026
Adjective
  • Not only is Irish the Republic’s first official language, and compulsory from primary through to secondary school, it is required for entry into the civil service, and it is supported by its own radio station (Raidió na Gaeltachta) and TV station (TG4), and a range of promotional bodies.
    Big Think, Big Think, 4 May 2026
  • The plan leaves the door open for limited compulsory recruitment if not enough people volunteer.
    ABC News, ABC News, 29 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The series has devolved into a hysteria that the young and arrogant Timberwolves feed on since that first quarter of Game 2.
    Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 26 Apr. 2026
  • However, many thought Tilson Thomas too brash and arrogant to lead an orchestra, and, around the same time, Tilson Thomas fell in with New York’s disco-hopping crowd.
    Jessica Gelt, Los Angeles Times, 23 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The fundamental processes governing brain health — genetics, neural and synaptic plasticity, and neuroinflammation — do not respect the arbitrary boundaries drawn between neurology and psychiatry.
    Eric J. Nestler, STAT, 28 Apr. 2026
  • White-Jacket did cause a stir with its discussion of the arbitrary and cruel use of flogging in the US Navy.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 28 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The new biopic of Jackson from director Antoine Fuqua and the Jackson estate paints the gloved one as the one true victim — a harmless Peter Pan figure whose own childhood was snatched away by a domineering father.
    Marlow Stern, Variety, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Joseph has a cruel and domineering air about him.
    Paul A. Thompson, Pitchfork, 27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Key measures include mandatory identification verification for recording, witness address requirements and free property fraud alert services from county clerks.
    Lew Sichelman, Miami Herald, 7 May 2026
  • Fort Mill joined Clover in announcing mandatory restrictions after the Catawba-Wateree Drought Management Advisory Group upgraded the region to Stage 2.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 7 May 2026
Adjective
  • Besides their obvious beauty, wicker baskets are superior for storage (especially laundry), providing excellent ventilation that prevents mold and mildew from damaging your linens.
    Ashley Poskin, Martha Stewart, 2 May 2026
  • Smyth’s nightly tasting menu of superior New Wisconsin cuisine highlights local and seasonal ingredients.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 May 2026
Adjective
  • Every Tuesday, this new newsletter will deliver clear-eyed, authoritative intelligence on the deals, decisions, policies, and power shifts shaping one of the world’s most consequential regions, written for the people who need to act on it.
    Jim Edwards, Fortune, 4 May 2026
  • Denver landed an authoritative punch in the second and third quarters of Game 1 to open this playoff series against the Timberwolves.
    Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 27 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Peremptory.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/peremptory. Accessed 8 May. 2026.

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