Definition of Preclude
Quick Meaning of Preclude
To make it impossible for something to happen. It stops something before it can occur.
Detailed Definition of Preclude
To prevent something from happening; to make something impossible or prevent someone from doing something.
How to Pronounce Preclude
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: pri-KLOOD. 'Pri' sounds like 'pri' in 'private', 'klood' sounds like 'clood' with a 'k' sound at the start.
Watch out: Learners may stress the first syllable (PRE-klood) or mispronounce 'clude' as 'clud'. Correct: pri-KLOOD with second syllable stressed.
Origin and Etymology of Preclude
From Latin 'praecludere' (to shut off, block). 'Prae-' (before) + 'claudere' (to close, shut). Entered English in 17th century from legal and academic language.
How to Use Preclude in a Sentence
Each example shows “preclude” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The lack of funding precludes the possibility of expanding the research program.”
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“His criminal record precludes him from obtaining a professional license.”
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“The weather conditions precluded any outdoor activities during the conference.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Preclude
Common Synonyms for Preclude
Smart Synonyms for Preclude — When to Use Each
- prevent
- More general; common in all registers
- exclude
- Emphasizes removing possibility completely
- obstruct
- Suggests creating obstacles or barriers
Common Collocations with Preclude
These phrases pair with “preclude” in everyday English:
- preclude the possibility
- preclude from
- preclude access
- preclude any chance
- preclude consideration
Common Mistakes When Using Preclude
Even fluent speakers slip up with “preclude”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The illness precluded him to attend the meeting.
- ✓ Correct: The illness precluded him from attending the meeting.
- Why: Use 'from + gerund' not 'to + infinitive' after 'preclude someone'.
- ✗ Wrong: Budget constraints preclude expanding the department.
- ✓ Correct: Budget constraints preclude the expansion of the department. / Budget constraints preclude expanding the department.
- Why: Both forms work, but 'the expansion of' is more formal and academic.
- ✗ Wrong: This policy does not preclude to consider other options.
- ✓ Correct: This policy does not preclude considering other options.
- Why: After 'preclude', use gerund 'considering' not infinitive 'to consider'.
Other Forms of Preclude
- Noun: preclusion
- Verb: preclude
- Adjective: precluded
Frequently Asked Questions About Preclude
What is the meaning of "Preclude"?
To make it impossible for something to happen. It stops something before it can occur.
How do you pronounce "Preclude"?
The IPA is /prɪˈkluːd/. Stress the second syllable: pri-KLOOD. 'Pri' sounds like 'pri' in 'private', 'klood' sounds like 'clood' with a 'k' sound at the start.
What part of speech is "Preclude"?
"Preclude" is a verb at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Preclude"?
Common synonyms include prevent, prohibit, exclude.
How do you use "Preclude" in a sentence?
For example: "The lack of funding precludes the possibility of expanding the research program."