How is "exclude" used on the GRE?

"exclude" is a commonly tested GRE vocabulary word. It appears in Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence, and Reading Comprehension sections. Understanding its definition, synonyms, and usage in context is essential for GRE Verbal Reasoning.

What are synonyms for "exclude"?

Synonyms for "exclude" include: bar, prohibit, omit, preclude, ban, forbid, eliminate, shut out.

exclude

Pronunciation: /ɪkˈskluːd/

verb

Difficulty: common

Definition of exclude

To intentionally prevent someone or something from entering, being considered, or participating in an activity, group, or situation.

Origin of exclude

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: excludere

Original meaning: shut out

How it evolved: From 'ex-' meaning 'out' and 'claudere' meaning 'to close,' the term transitioned into Middle English through Old French as 'excluder,' retaining its sense of denial or prevention.

The word 'exclude' originates from Latin and has evolved to mean barring or shutting out of a group or situation.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember exclude

Think of 'exclude' as 'ex' (out) + 'clude' (close)—to close someone or something out.

Synonyms for exclude

bar
prohibit
omit
preclude
ban
forbid
eliminate
shut out

Antonyms of exclude

include
admit
welcome
permit
embrace

exclude in a Sentence

The organization decided to exclude applicants who did not meet the minimum qualifications for the position.
His controversial opinions led the committee to exclude him from further discussions on the project.
The legislation was designed to exclude loopholes that could be exploited by large corporations.

exclude in Literature & Culture

The word 'exclude' is often used in political, social, and legal contexts to discuss issues of discrimination, marginalization, or eligibility criteria, making it a frequent term in public discourse and literature.

Usage Notes

Be cautious with the connotation of 'exclude'—it often implies intentionality and could carry a negative tone, suggesting rejection or discrimination.

Why exclude Matters for GRE & SAT

The word 'exclude' is pivotal for GRE test-takers because it appears in reading comprehension passages and questions that test understanding of argument structures and contrast.

Word Family

exclusion (noun): The act of preventing or keeping someone or something out.
exclusive (adjective): Limited to a particular group or individual; not shared with others.
excludable (adjective): Capable of being excluded or omitted.
excluder (noun): One who excludes or shuts others out.

Did You Know?

In ancient Rome, the Latin root 'excludere' was used in legal contexts to refer to denying access to certain rights or privileges.
The concept of exclusion is central to many famous works of literature, such as 'The Scarlet Letter' and 'To Kill a Mockingbird,' which explore themes of societal rejection.
The phrase 'excluded middle' is used in logic to describe a principle where a statement is either true or false, with no middle ground.

relegate
banish
ebullient — cheerful and joyful
eccentric — deviating from conventional behavior; quirky
echelon — a level or tier within a system or organization
eclectic — Deriving ideas or style from a broad and diverse range of sources
eclipse — overshadow or surpass

More Vocabulary Words Starting with E

ebullient — cheerful and joyful
ebullient — cheerful and joyful
eccentric — deviating from conventional behavior; quirky
eccentric — deviating from conventional behavior; quirky
echelon — a level or tier within a system or organization
echelon — a level or tier within a system or organization
eclectic — Deriving ideas or style from a broad and diverse range of sources
eclectic — derived from a diverse range of sources or styles
eclectic — derived from a diverse range of sources or styles
eclipse — overshadow or surpass