premeditate

Premeditate is a verb meaning to think about or plan something, especially an action, beforehand. In general use, it describes intentional consideration that precedes an act. The related noun is premeditation. The word comes from Latin premeditat- “to think about beforehand,” from prae- “before” and meditat- “to consider; think over.”

In legal contexts, premeditation denotes a mental state in which the actor formed an intent to bring about a particular result before acting. It is a common element in first-degree murder statutes in various jurisdictions, where guilt may require that the accused consciously planned the killing prior to the act. How long the planning must occur and what constitutes sufficient evidence of premeditation vary by jurisdiction. Evidence can include planning actions, gathering materials, setting a timetable, prior discussions or motives, and the length of time between the decision and the act; in some places even a brief period of reflection may suffice.

Common usage distinguishes between spontaneous acts and those that are premeditated; however, premeditation is not necessarily measured in hours or days, as even short, deliberate contemplation can meet the criterion in some contexts. The term is sometimes used metaphorically to describe any deliberate preference or strategy, not exclusively in crime.

Related terms include intent, deliberation, and mens rea; the concept is contrasted with spontaneity. In discussions of law, premeditation is often connected to discussions of first-degree murder statutes and other offenses that require proof of planned conduct.