Preclude
/prɪˈkluːd/
Definitions
To prevent the occurrence or existence of; to exclude as impossible or impractical.
/prɪˈkluːd/
To prevent or make impossible; to exclude.
The lack of evidence precluded a conviction.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're planning a picnic. If rain is forecasted, it might preclude you from having the picnic. Basically, it stops something from happening.
👶 For kids: To stop something from happening.
More Examples
His prior commitments precluded his attendance at the meeting.
The terms of the contract preclude any further negotiations.
A severe injury precluded her from playing in the game.
How It's Used
"The evidence precluded any possibility of his innocence."
"Heavy rainfall precluded any outdoor activities."
Synonyms
From Latin *praecludere* ('to shut off'), from *prae* ('before') + *claudere* ('to close').
Used since the 16th century, the word's usage often reflects its Latin roots, emphasizing formal settings and legal contexts.
Memory tip
PRE-CLUDE: Before closing something off, you PREVENT it.