ENGLISH
REFERENCE

rule out

idiom
Meaning

To reject an option from a list of possibilities.


Examples
SIMPLE

We can rule out that option because it costs too much.

CONTEXTUAL

The doctor ran several tests to rule out any serious health problems before starting the treatment.

COMPLEX

Investigators had to rule out every other possible explanation before they could conclude that the fire was caused by a faulty electrical wire.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    as a rule

    In general; most often.

  2. 02

    bright-line rule

    A clear-cut rule, so that it is easy to make a decision.

  3. 03

    golden rule

    A fundamental rule or principle.

  4. 04

    ground rule

    The basic rules or standards; basic principles.

  5. 05

    rule in

    To consider (something) as a possible option among others.

  6. 06

    rule of thumb

    A general guideline, rather than a strict rule; an approximate measure or means of reckoning based on experience or common knowledge.

  7. 07

    rule OK

    To be popularly accepted, or supported by the general majority of people.

  8. 08

    rule the day

    To set the standard which guides behavior; to control a situation, group, strategy, etc.

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