preclude
UK: /prɪˈkluːd/ | US: /prɪˈkluːd/
vt. to prevent something from happening; make impossible
vt. to exclude or rule out in advance
preclude = pre<before> + clude<shut>
- pre: From Latin prae-, meaning "before" (temporal or spatial).
- clude: From Latin claudere, meaning "to shut" or "close."
Etymology Origin:
The word "preclude" originates from Latin praecludere (prae- + claudere), literally "to shut beforehand." It entered English in the early 16th century, retaining its core idea of preventing or blocking something by acting in advance. The logic is straightforward: if you "shut before" an opportunity or event, you effectively prevent it.
The heavy rain precluded any outdoor activities.
Strict laws preclude the misuse of sensitive data.
His prior commitment precluded him from attending the meeting.
The contract terms preclude further negotiations.
Safety protocols preclude unauthorized access to the lab.