What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
forestalled
Example
The company forestalled the strike by offering better working conditions. [forestalled: verb]
Example
His quick thinking forestalled a potential disaster. [forestalled: past tense]
preclude
Example
The new security measures precluded any unauthorized access to the building. [precluded: verb]
Example
His lack of qualifications precluded him from getting the job. [precluded: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Forestalled is more commonly used than preclude in everyday language, but both words are used in formal writing and speech.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between forestalled and preclude?
Preclude is generally considered more formal than forestalled, and is often used in academic or legal contexts.
