precludes the possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "precludes the possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something prevents or makes something impossible from occurring. Example: "The new regulations preclude the possibility of any further development in that area."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Imagining supernatural answers precludes the possibility of finding verifiable answers.

The New York Times

Therefore, building in them in no way precludes the possibility of a two-state solution".

The Guardian

The jolt he is after precludes the possibility of kitsch, a chronic hazard of landscapes.

The New Yorker

Let's hope that Penzler's "Most Complete" anthology precludes the possibility of a "Completely Complete" one.

The New Yorker

But according to the astronomers' theories the MECOs' existence precludes the possibility of black holes.

The Guardian

That outcome, Dr. Nissen wrote, "virtually precludes the possibility of an overall benefit and suggest an unexpected mechanism for harm".

The New York Times

The title compounds possess identical C-1 phenyl substituents which precludes the possibility of (Z)- and (E -stereoisomers.

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters

The combination of continuing to be detained, having been tortured, and not having health professionals to be helpful almost precludes the possibility of healing," Iacopino said.

The Guardian

Just because you're crazy doesn't mean you're not also stupid, and neither precludes the possibility that you've got your boot on the neck of someone even worse off.

The New Yorker

Of course, none of this precludes the possibility that our frugal ways will endure even after the economy starts to recover.

The New Yorker

While the income from Josephine's bureaucratic job is necessary to support a child, the very performance of the job dramatically precludes the possibility of procreating.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "precludes the possibility", ensure that the context clearly establishes what factor is preventing the specified outcome. Clarity is key to effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "precludes the possibility" when the situation merely reduces the likelihood rather than completely eliminating it. Consider using phrases like "reduces the likelihood of" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "precludes the possibility" functions as a verb phrase that introduces a cause-and-effect relationship, indicating that one factor makes a particular outcome impossible. As Ludwig indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

35%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "precludes the possibility" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that something makes a specific outcome impossible. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, particularly in scientific, academic, and news contexts. While alternative phrases exist, such as "rules out the chance" or "eliminates the potential", "precludes the possibility" offers a formal and precise tone suitable for professional and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines what is preventing the outcome and avoid overstating certainty if the likelihood is merely reduced, not eliminated.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precludes any chance of

This is a slight variation of the original phrase, replacing "the possibility" with "any chance".

makes impossible

This alternative simplifies the phrase by directly stating the impossibility of something.

rules out the chance

This alternative offers a more casual tone by replacing "precludes" with "rules out" and "possibility" with "chance".

eliminates the potential

This phrase replaces "precludes" with "eliminates" and "possibility" with "potential", focusing on the removal of a potential outcome.

removes any prospect of

This phrases highlight the removal of any future prospect of something happening.

removes the option

This alternative is simpler and more direct, focusing on the removal of a choice or option.

negates the likelihood

This phrase emphasizes the reduction of probability rather than complete prevention.

forecloses the opportunity

This alternative is more formal, replacing "possibility" with "opportunity" to highlight a lost chance.

obviates any prospect for

This formal version uses 'obviates' to mean removes the need or possibility.

vetoes the option of

This alternative replace precludes with 'vetoes' meaning to reject or prohibit.

FAQs

How can I use "precludes the possibility" in a sentence?

You can use "precludes the possibility" to indicate that a particular action, condition, or factor makes a certain outcome impossible. For example, "The new evidence precludes the possibility of a successful appeal."

What are some alternatives to "precludes the possibility"?

Alternatives include "rules out the chance", "eliminates the potential", or "makes impossible". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Is it more formal to say "precludes the possibility" or "rules out the possibility"?

"Precludes the possibility" is generally considered more formal than "rules out the possibility". The former is suitable for academic, scientific, or professional contexts, while the latter is more appropriate for informal communication.

What's the difference between "precludes the possibility" and "reduces the possibility"?

"Precludes the possibility" indicates that something makes an outcome impossible, whereas "reduces the possibility" only suggests that an outcome is less likely. The former implies complete prevention, while the latter implies a decrease in likelihood.