rule out

(verb) make impossible, especially beforehand. Synonyms: preclude, rule out, close out.

(verb) include or exclude by determining judicially or in agreement with rules. Synonyms: rule out, rule in.

(verb) dismiss from consideration or a contest. Synonyms: rule out, eliminate, winnow out, reject. Examples: "John was ruled out as a possible suspect because he had a strong alibi." "This possibility can be eliminated from our consideration."