Peremptory
Adjective
Definition: Insisting on immediate attention or obedience; commanding; dictatorial.
Definition: Not open to appeal or challenge; final or authoritative.
Synonyms: Imperative, Commanding, Autocratic
Antonyms: Flexible, Accommodating, Lenient
- He gave a peremptory order to his subordinates.
- The judge made a peremptory ruling, ending the debate.
- "Per" sounds like "pair", think of a boss who pairs you with tasks in a commanding manner.
- "Empty of room for argument or challenge."
Etymology:
Middle English (in the sense 'decisive, putting an end to'): from Latin 'peremptorius', from 'perimere' ('destroy').
Historical Usage:The word has been used in legal contexts to describe a final and absolute ruling since the late 16th century.
Related Idioms:
"Peremptory challenge"
Explanation:In legal proceedings, a peremptory challenge is the dismissal of a prospective juror without stating a reason.
Misconceptions:
Confusing the adjective "peremptory" with the noun "peremptoriness".
Explanation:"Peremptory" is the adjective form, while "peremptoriness" refers to the quality or state of being peremptory.