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Difference between Preclude and Prelude

Preclude means to make impossible or to rule out.

  • Her sore throat will preclude her from singing tonight.

Prelude is an action that acts as an introduction to an event.

  • Their actions seemed to be an ironic prelude to disaster.

Prelude is also a short musical selection that serves to introduce a larger musical selection.

  • The orchestra played the prelude promptly at 8 p.m.