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.
Jean-Philippe Mateta pulled a goal back and Yeremy Pino almost delivered a stirring comeback to give an even better on-pitch send-off but for his goal to be ruled out for offside. Matt Woosnam, New York Times, 25 May 2026 Gummed-up valves and concerns that drilling into the tank may spark a reaction with the volatile chemicals seemed to rule out obvious solutions. Sean Emery, Oc Register, 25 May 2026 The National Weather Service says the severe weather threat is low, but that an isolated severe wind gust cannot be ruled out. Ciara McCarthy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 May 2026 Blanche refused to rule out the notion that individuals convicted of assaulting police officers would be eligible to obtain money. Miami Herald, 24 May 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 31 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

rule out

verb
: to eliminate the possibility of

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