exclude
8 synonyms and 1 antonyms for exclude, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To keep someone or something out, or leave it out of consideration.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use exclude
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin excludere, "to shut out" — ex ("out") plus claudere ("to close").
Full origin of exclude →Frequently asked questions
What does “exclude” mean?
The word “exclude” means to keep someone or something out, or leave it out of consideration. In plain terms, to keep out, leave out, or rule out.
How do you pronounce “exclude”?
“Exclude” is pronounced ihks-KLOOD (/ɪksˈkluːd/ in IPA).
How do you use “exclude” in a sentence?
Here is “exclude” used in a sentence: “The club excludes anyone under eighteen.”
What is another word for “exclude”?
Words with a similar meaning to “exclude” include forbar, turn away, throw out and turf out.
What is the opposite of “exclude”?
The opposite of “exclude” — its antonyms — is include.
What part of speech is “exclude”?
“Exclude” is a verb.
Where does the word “exclude” come from?
The word “exclude” comes from Latin. From Latin excludere, "to shut out" — ex ("out") plus claudere ("to close").
Is “exclude” a common word?
“Exclude” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between exclude and include?
Exclude means to keep something or someone out or leave it out of consideration, while include means to add or count something in. The two words are direct opposites, describing whether something is left out or brought in.
What is the difference between exclude and exempt?
Exclude means to leave someone or something out entirely, while exempt means someone is not required to do or follow something that otherwise applies, without necessarily being left out of the group altogether. For example, a person can be exempt from a rule while still being included in a group.
How is exclude used in a medical or investigative context?
In medicine or investigation, exclude means to rule something out as a possibility, such as tests being used to exclude a particular diagnosis. This usage confirms that a possibility has been eliminated rather than physically kept out.