PRECLUDE verb /priˈklo͞od/  precluded, past participle; precluded, past tense; precludes, 3rd person singular present; precluding, present participle Prevent from happening; make impossible - the secret nature of his work precluded official recognition (of a situation or condition) Prevent someone from doing something - his difficulties preclude him from leading a normal life PREVENT verb /priˈvent/  prevented, past participle; prevented, past tense; preventing, present participle; prevents, 3rd person singular present Keep (something) from happening or arising - action must be taken to prevent further accidents Make (someone or something) unable to do something - window locks won't prevent a determined burglar from getting in (of God) Go before (someone) with spiritual guidance and help