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I want to convey a message in the abstract of a scientific paper that I am writing that says:

"Due to A (some principle), it estops (precludes) the use of classical ....". Is it too fancy? The word "preclude" is used a lot that is why I wanted something different that attracts the reader.

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    Abstracts are supposed to be quickly readable and understandable; in many fields by people for whom English is not a first language. They're not the opportunity to use your weird Scrabble words. At least if you want people to read and cite your paper.
    – Stuart F
    Commented Apr 18 at 10:05
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    M-W, for instance, says that apart from the legal specifying definition, this word is obsolete.
    – Edwin Ashworth
    Commented Apr 18 at 10:16
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    I don't think I speak for everybody but I ain't never heard of no 'ee-stop'. Is that some kind of way to stop email? Then I'm all for it!
    – Mitch
    Commented Apr 18 at 13:22
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    This question should not have been closed. It is a question about style and usage, not a dictionary question.
    – Vector
    Commented Apr 18 at 17:57
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    Keep in mind that scientific papers are often read by people whose first language is not English. It may be to your benefit to give more weight to clarity than style.
    – jimm101
    Commented Apr 19 at 1:46

1 Answer 1

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No. Estop is not a good alternative for preclude.

Estop has a specific meaning and is used only where it means to preclude by estoppel.

estoppel law
a rule of evidence whereby a person is precluded from denying the truth of a statement of facts he or she has previously asserted.

Collins

You may be able to use prevent or even simply stop, although some rewording might be needed.

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  • Thanks for the reply. I did not know about estoppel.
    – CfourPiO
    Commented Apr 18 at 10:15

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