Definition of Exclude
Quick Meaning of Exclude
To not allow someone or something to be part of something; to keep them out.
Detailed Definition of Exclude
To keep out or prevent someone or something from being included; to prevent from entering or participating.
How to Pronounce Exclude
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: ik-SKLUUD. The 'ex' sounds like 'ik', and 'clude' rhymes with 'food'.
Watch out: Learners may stress the first syllable (EX-klood) instead of the second (ik-SKLUUD). Also, some say 'ex-' like 'eks' instead of 'ik'.
Origin and Etymology of Exclude
From Latin 'excludere' (shut out). 'Ex-' (out) + 'claudere' (shut, close). The word developed its modern meaning in the 14th century.
How to Use Exclude in a Sentence
Each example shows “exclude” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
-
“The policy excludes people with prior criminal convictions from employment.”
-
“The final price excludes taxes and delivery charges.”
-
“These findings do not exclude the possibility of further investigation.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Exclude
Common Synonyms for Exclude
Smart Synonyms for Exclude — When to Use Each
- keep out
- More informal; identical meaning
- bar
- More formal; suggests prohibition
- include
- Opposite meaning; to allow participation
Common Collocations with Exclude
These phrases pair with “exclude” in everyday English:
- exclude from
- exclude someone
- exclude the possibility
- exclude taxes
- exclude a group
Common Mistakes When Using Exclude
Even fluent speakers slip up with “exclude”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The warranty excludes from water damage.
- ✓ Correct: The warranty excludes water damage. / The warranty does not cover water damage.
- Why: Direct object structure: 'exclude damage' not 'exclude from damage'. 'From' is used differently: 'exclude people from events'.
- ✗ Wrong: We can exclude he will pass the exam.
- ✓ Correct: We cannot exclude the possibility that he will pass the exam. / We cannot exclude that he will pass.
- Why: Cannot use 'exclude he will pass'. Use 'exclude the possibility of' or 'exclude that' structure with negation.
- ✗ Wrong: They excludes the work yesterday.
- ✓ Correct: They excluded the work yesterday.
- Why: Use past tense form for past actions; do not add "-s" to the past tense.
Other Forms of Exclude
- Noun: exclusion
- Verb: exclude
- Adjective: exclusive
- Adverb: exclusively
Frequently Asked Questions About Exclude
What is the meaning of "Exclude"?
To not allow someone or something to be part of something; to keep them out.
How do you pronounce "Exclude"?
The IPA is /ɪkˈskluːd/. Stress the second syllable: ik-SKLUUD. The 'ex' sounds like 'ik', and 'clude' rhymes with 'food'.
What part of speech is "Exclude"?
"Exclude" is a verb at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Exclude"?
Common synonyms include keep out, bar, prohibit.
How do you use "Exclude" in a sentence?
For example: "The policy excludes people with prior criminal convictions from employment."