proactive
Say it: proh-AK-tiv /proʊˈæktɪv/ · adjective
What “proactive” means
Acting early to prepare for what might happen.
More precisely: Acting in advance to deal with an expected problem or opportunity.
Example: “Be proactive: flag risks before they turn into fires.”
When to use it
At work or in everyday planning, usually approvingly, when someone acts before a likely problem or opportunity arrives.
Similar words
forward-thinking, anticipatory, enterprising
Quick check
Before the forecast storm arrives, you clear the gutters to prevent flooding. Your approach is…
reactive or proactive?
Show the answer
proactive
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