preclude

American  

[pri-klood] / prɪˈklud /

verb (used with object)

precluded, precluding

1. to prevent the presence, existence, or occurrence of; make impossible.

   The insufficiency of the evidence precludes a conviction.

   Synonyms:

   eliminate, forestall

2. to exclude or debar from something.

   His contract precludes a raise for him.

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preclude British  

/ prɪˈkluːd, prɪˈkluːʒən, prɪˈkluːsɪv /

verb

1. to exclude or debar

2. to make impossible, esp beforehand

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Other Word Forms

• precludable adjective
• preclusion noun
• preclusive adjective
• preclusively adverb
• unprecludable adjective
• unpreclusive adjective
• unpreclusively adverb

Etymology

Origin of preclude

First recorded in 1610–20; from Latin praeclūdere “to shut off, close,” equivalent to prae- pre- + -clūdere, combining form of claudere “to shut, close ”

Compare meaning

How does preclude compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• preclude vs. exclude

Example Sentences

Even if a bubble already has burst, “that doesn’t preclude a big correction in the index if corporate earnings falter,” Higgins wrote.

From Barron's

Along with all the other abuses uncovered during the Watergate era, new rules governing the FBI were put in place to preclude such abuses from happening again.

From Salon

Experts noted that the agreement does not preclude companies from using fossil fuels to meet growing energy demand.

From Los Angeles Times

A market that keeps chugging ahead doesn’t preclude plenty of volatility under the surface, and it might not stay there.

From Barron's

Edward’s sternness does not preclude real love for all his children.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• avert
• cease
• deter
• exclude
• forestall
• hinder
• impede
• obviate
• prevent
• prohibit
• rule out