Vocabulary in context
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Preclude
To prevent something from happening; to make something impossible.
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Imagine This
Sherlock Holmes says, 'It is impossible to solve this murder case before any clues are discovered.'
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Sounds Like
PRI-KLOOD
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Looks Like
pre- + clue (visual cue: resembles other -lude words like include, exclude, conclude; evokes the idea of 'before closing')
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Remember This
Pre → a prefix meaning before. Precede → to go before in time, place, or importance. Premonition → a warning in advance.
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Other Forms
preclusionnoun
precludedverb (past participle)
precludingverb (present participle)
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Connect With
prevent, hinder, foreclose, thwart, obviate, exclude
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Note
Preclude is formal and often used in legal or analytical writing. It typically takes the form 'preclude someone from doing something' or 'preclude the possibility.' It does not mean merely to discourage; it means to make something impossible.
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Study Deeper
Examples
- The heavy rain precluded any plans for a picnic.
- The contract precludes the use of personal devices on the premises.
Synonyms
preventhinderforecloseobviatepreempt
Antonyms
permitallowenable
Etymology
From Latin praecludere, prae- meaning 'before' + cludere meaning 'to close'; the sense evolved to 'shut off in advance.'
Mnemonic
Mnemonic: PRE-CLUDE = PRE (before) + CLOSE. Imagine a door that is pre-closed to block entry before anyone even approaches.
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Coalition
nounA union or combination of groups or parties for a common purpose; a temporary alliance.
Steadfast
adjectiveFixed in position or purpose; unwavering and loyal, showing firm determination and reliability.
Dissent
nounA public or formal expression of disagreement with a policy, decision, or widely held view.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Abandon
verbTo give up completely, to desert or leave behind, or to relinquish a claim, plan, or responsibility.
Abate
verbTo decrease in amount or intensity; to reduce or end something.
Abolish
verbTo formally end or repeal a system, practice, or institution; to officially put an end to something established.
Abridge
verbTo shorten (a text, speech, or other work) by omitting parts; to condense.
Abscond
verbTo depart secretly or flee, especially to avoid detection or arrest.
Absolve
verbTo free someone from blame or responsibility; to pardon or exonerate.
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