rule out

British  

verb

1. to dismiss from consideration

2. to make impossible; preclude or prevent

   the rain ruled out outdoor games

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rule out Idioms  

1. Eliminate from consideration, exclude, as in The option of starting over again has been ruled out . [Second half of 1800s]

2. Prevent, make impossible, as in The snowstorm ruled out our weekly rehearsal . [First half of 1900s]

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Example Sentences

Resemblances to 21st-century persons and situations, “though not intended, cannot be ruled out.”

From The Wall Street Journal

The government, which has so far ruled out any form of rationing, has also sought to alleviate shortages by releasing oil from the national stockpile and lowering fuel standards.

From BBC

ING’s base case is a July hike, though May isn’t ruled out if inflation risks intensify.

From The Wall Street Journal

Starmer has not ruled out a ban but is awaiting the outcome of a public consultation, due to close on May 26.

From Barron's

Smart and Hachimura remain day-to-day as they missed their second consecutive games while Ayton was ruled out immediately before the game.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• avert
• ban
• cancel
• dismiss
• eliminate
• forbid
• preclude
• prevent
• prohibit
• revoke
• suspend