Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Preclude” — 4 Other Ways to Say It
To make it impossible for something to happen. It stops something before it can occur.
Meaning of Preclude
To prevent something from happening; to make something impossible or prevent someone from doing something.
How to Pronounce Preclude
IPA: /prɪˈkluːd/ Stress: oO
Stress the second syllable: pri-KLOOD. 'Pri' sounds like 'pri' in 'private', 'klood' sounds like 'clood' with a 'k' sound at the start.
4 Synonyms for Preclude — Words Similar to Preclude
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
prevent
/prɪˈvɛnt/To keep something bad from happening. To stop something before it occurs.
Example: Regular exercise can prevent illness.
prohibit
/prəˈhɪbɪt/To officially say that something is not allowed. A person in power prevents an action.
Example: The university prohibits students from using mobile phones during exams.
exclude
/ɪkˈskluːd/To not allow someone or something to be part of something; to keep them out.
Example: The policy excludes people with prior criminal convictions from employment.
hinder
/ˈhɪndər/To make something harder or slower. To get in the way of something someone is trying to do.
Example: Poor infrastructure hindered economic development in rural areas.
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
How to Use Preclude and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- The lack of funding precludes the possibility of expanding the research program. C2
- His criminal record precludes him from obtaining a professional license. C2
- The weather conditions precluded any outdoor activities during the conference. C2
Common Word Choice Mistakes with Preclude
Not natural: Budget constraints preclude expanding the department.
Better: Budget constraints preclude the expansion of the department. / Budget constraints preclude expanding the department.
Both forms work, but 'the expansion of' is more formal and academic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Preclude
What is another word for "preclude"?
Common synonyms for "preclude" include: prevent, prohibit, exclude, hinder.
What can I say instead of "preclude"?
Try one of these alternatives: prevent, prohibit, exclude, hinder. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "preclude" formal or informal?
"preclude" is generally used in formal contexts. Use it in writing, business, and academic settings.
When should I use "preclude" instead of "prevent"?
Use "preclude" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "prevent" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.