rule out

verb

ruled out; ruling out; rules out

transitive verb

1
2
: to make impossible : prevent
heavy rain ruled out the picnic

Examples of rule out in a Sentence

another loss would rule them out of the tournament
Recent Examples on the Web Future Hall of Famer Mike Evans was ruled out with a hamstring injury relatively early in the game. Vincent Frank, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024 While Starmer has ruled out increases to some major taxes, including on income and corporations, a broader package of tax hikes is anticipated. Jenni Reid, CNBC, 22 Oct. 2024 Tight budgets and engineering challenges ruled out a lander or a Europa orbiter. Joel Achenbach, arkansasonline.com, 20 Oct. 2024 However, because health conditions like diabetes can cause cold feet, cold hands, or both, see a healthcare provider to rule out any chronic issues. Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 17 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for rule out 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rule out.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1658, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of rule out was circa 1658

Dictionary Entries Near rule out

Cite this Entry

“Rule out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20out. Accessed 2 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

rule out

verb
: to eliminate the possibility of

More from Merriam-Webster on rule out

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