What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
obviate
Example
By taking preventive measures, we can obviate the need for costly repairs later on. [obviate: verb]
Example
The new software will obviate the need for manual data entry. [obviate: verb]
preclude
Example
The lack of funding precludes us from pursuing this project. [precludes: verb]
Example
His criminal record precluded him from being hired for the job. [precluded: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Preclude is more commonly used than obviate in everyday language. Preclude is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while obviate is less common and often used in formal writing and speech.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between obviate and preclude?
Both obviate and preclude are often used in formal writing and speech, but preclude may be considered slightly more formal due to its use in legal and academic contexts.
