rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryprecludeMake impossible
verb

preclude

prih-KLOOD/prɪˈkluːd/

To prevent something from happening or being possible.

The padlocked gate precludes passage through the entrance.

A securely padlocked gate across a narrow entrance makes passage impossible: an older man tries the gate, but its chain holds both leaves firmly closed.
Etymology
preLatinbefore, ahead
+cludeLatinto shut

“Before” and “shut” give the image of shutting something off in advance. Preclude applies that image to preventing an event or closing off a possibility.

In context

The Riverside Church10:37
What sort of challenges, aches, pains, or unfulfilled dreams preclude us from experiencing joy?
In the Midst of a Crowd by Rev. Debra Northern | April 10, 2022

More examples

  • An earlier commitment precluded her attendance.
  • The rule does not preclude further discussion.
  • Lack of evidence precludes a firm conclusion.

Forms

preclude · precludes · precluded · precluding

preclusion noun — the prevention of a possibility

Similar words

prevent
Prevent is the general verb; preclude often means make something impossible through a prior condition.
exclude
Exclude leaves something out; preclude rules it out as a possibility.