Used when eliminating options after careful consideration or due to new information. After reviewing the evidence, detectives ruled out theft as a motive.
Pro Tip 2/3
Neutral Tone
The phrase 'rule out' carries no positive or negative connotations by itself; it's neutral. The stormy weather rules out the chance of going to the beach today.
Pro Tip 3/3
Context Driven
Understanding the full context is crucial since 'rule out' hinges on the situation's details. The manager ruled out overwork as a reason for the error.