Phrasal Verbs

rule out

This page is about the phrasal verb rule out

Meaning

If you rule something out, you don't think it's possible.

For example

  • rule out sb/sth Sally will probably win, but don't rule out Carol. She's got a good chance too.

  • rule sb/sth out We thought she might have cancer, but after seeing the latest test results, I think we can rule that out.

Quick Quiz

My son has ruled out a career as a doctor because

a. he hates the sight of blood

b. he thinks he'd be good at it

c. he doesn't get sick very often
a) he hates the sight of blood b) he thinks he'd be good at it c) he doesn't get sick very often

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1000 Phrasal Verbs in Context

Contributor: Matt Errey