Synonyms of preclude

preclude

verb

pri-ˈklüd 

as in to prevent

to keep from happening by taking action in advance

issued a strict schedule for doing household chores so as to preclude any arguments

Synonyms & Similar Words

• prevent
• avert
• obviate
• avoid
• forestall
• help
• provide
• head off
• anticipate
• escape
• stave off
• deter
• hinder
• impede
• nullify
• prohibit
• thwart
• evade
• neutralize
• save
• forbid
• negate
• hamper
• frustrate
• elude
• interfere (with)
• shake
• deflect
• inhibit
• eschew
• retard
• shun
• stop
• offset
• balk
• counteract
• circumvent
• ward (off)
• fend (off)
• counterbalance
• block
• compensate (for)
• make up (for)
• stall
• foil
• baffle
• halt
• shirk
• bar
• check
• arrest
• dodge
• checkmate
• duck

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• assist
• aid
• facilitate
• encourage
• promote
• ease
• permit
• allow
• forward
• abet
• let
• foster
• smooth
• advance
• cultivate
• leave
• further
• unclog
• nurture

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of preclude

State attorneys argued Tuesday that the federal government has no authority over California elections and seeks to violate federal law precluding voter roll purges in the 90 days before an election. — Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 20 Oct. 2026

Califia has previously been detained for drug possession but was also released before her arraignment, precluding the possibility of diversion court. — Jennah Pendleton, Sacbee.com, 19 Oct. 2026

That level of control precluded a Vatican media operation from spinning tall tales as occurred during John Paul's reign. — ABC News, 17 Oct. 2026

As a result, spoiler vigilance is no longer just a matter of not giving away the ending of a film; sometimes even simply describing its over-all dramatic shape is enough to preclude suspense. — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 15 Oct. 2026