Precluding Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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precluding

[prɪˈkluːdɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

preventing action

To preclude means to make something impossible or to prevent an action from happening. It can be used in various contexts, particularly in legal or formal discussions where certain actions are ruled out.

Synonyms

exclude, foreclose, preempt, prevent, prohibit.

Examples of usage

  • The heavy rain precluded any outdoor activities.
  • Her busy schedule precluded her from attending the meeting.
  • The agreement precludes them from suing each other.
  • The evidence precludes the possibility of innocence.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Legal Terminology

  • In law, 'precluding' can refer to barring a party from introducing evidence or arguments in court.
  • The concept is often discussed in relation to statutes of limitations that preclude legal action after a certain time frame.
  • Judges may preclude witness testimonies if they are deemed irrelevant or prejudicial.

Philosophy

  • Philosophically, preclusion may relate to concepts of free will and determinism, suggesting that certain outcomes are prevented by prior events.
  • The idea has been explored in discussions about moral responsibility and decision-making.
  • Existentialists consider how our choices preclude other possible futures.

Science

  • In ecology, certain species may preclude others from thriving in the same environment, influencing biodiversity.
  • In medicine, preclusion can relate to factors that prevent disease development, like vaccination.
  • Research on cognitive biases shows how prior beliefs can preclude the acceptance of new information.

Origin of 'precluding'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'praecludere', which means 'to shut off beforehand'.
  • In its original form, it combined 'prae' (before) and 'claudere' (to shut or close).
  • It has been used in English since the 14th century.

The word 'preclude' originates from the Latin term 'praecludere', which means 'to shut off or close'. It is composed of two parts: 'prae', meaning 'before', and 'claudere', meaning 'to shut'. This etymological background reflects the word's definition, as it denotes an action that effectively shuts off or prevents something from occurring. The term made its transition into Middle English in the late 14th century, retaining its active meaning related to prevention. Over time, 'preclude' has been commonly utilized in legal, philosophical, and academic language, emphasizing the stopping of particular actions or events from happening.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,837, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.