Pre-meditated describes an action, especially a harmful one, that is planned or thought out beforehand. It suggests a deliberate intent and a calculated approach, distinguishing it from actions taken impulsively or without forethought. The term often implies a level of coldness or calculation, as the perpetrator has taken the time to consider the consequences and logistics of their actions. This element of planning intensifies the gravity of the act, making it more serious legally and ethically.
Pre-meditated meaning with examples
- The prosecution argued that the defendant's actions were pre-meditated, citing the weeks of planning and the purchase of a weapon as evidence of his intent. He had plenty of time to consider his actions, meaning the seriousness of his actions were far greater then a heat-of-the-moment crime.
- In a stunning turn of events, the confession revealed that the supposed accident was, in fact, a pre-meditated act of revenge. The victim was targeted, and the scenario meticulously crafted over many months.
- Despite claiming self-defense, the surveillance footage clearly showed the accused staking out the victim's residence for several days, indicating a pre-meditated attack and eliminating the option of self-defense.
- The judge sentenced him harshly, emphasizing the pre-meditated nature of the crime, as a major factor in the decision. His plan to lure his victim away from home and then act made him a menace to society.
- The discovery of a detailed roadmap of their plan, along with other factors, made the case of the robbery show as pre-meditated, which had the jury deciding whether the guilty party would receive jail time or the death penalty.