What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
preclude
Example
The heavy rain precluded us from having a picnic. [precluded: past tense verb]
Example
His lack of experience precludes him from being considered for the job. [precludes: present tense verb]
prevent
Example
Wearing a helmet can prevent head injuries while riding a bike. [prevent: verb]
Example
The security measures prevented the theft of valuable items from the store. [prevented: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prevent is more commonly used than preclude in everyday language. Prevent is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while preclude is less common and more formal, often used in legal or academic contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between preclude and prevent?
Preclude is more formal than prevent and is often used in legal or academic contexts. Prevent is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
