rule out

verb

ruled out; ruling out; rules out
Synonyms of rule outnext

transitive verb

1
: exclude, eliminate
They were ruled out as candidates for the job.
2
: to make impossible : prevent
Heavy rain ruled out the picnic.

Examples of rule out in a Sentence

another loss would rule them out of the tournament
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The president has repeatedly declined to rule out the threat of military force to acquire the semi-autonomous region. CBS News, 21 Jan. 2026 Greenland, Denmark, and European leaders have said the island is not for sale, but Trump has not ruled out using military force to seize the territory if necessary. Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 20 Jan. 2026 Trump has not ruled out the possibility of using military force, despite strong opposition from Americans and warnings that such action could mean the end of the longstanding NATO alliance. Sophie Brams, The Hill, 20 Jan. 2026 So, Charlotte Sports isn’t ruling out overhauling it in the future. Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 20 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rule out

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1658, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rule out was circa 1658

Cite this Entry

“Rule out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20out. Accessed 25 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

rule out

verb
: to eliminate the possibility of

More from Merriam-Webster on rule out

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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