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block out — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 meanings. Learn them one at a time, then test yourself.

phrasal verb2 meanings
block out
prevent light or soundavoid remembering

Meaning 1 · most common

prevent light or sound

  • block out sth

To stop light, noise, or something else from passing through or being noticed.

How oftenCommon
LevelB1
Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

The thick curtains block out most of the sunlight in my room.

A: Why do you wear headphones at work?
B: They help block out all the background noise so I can focus.

Common mistake

Not: Earplugs block out it.

Say: Earplugs block it out.

With a pronoun, the object goes in the middle: 'block it out'.

More on “prevent light or sound”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

In my opinion, wearing earplugs is a good way to block out loud sounds when you need to concentrate, especially in a busy library.

Tell it apart

Blackout blinds block out the light.

  • physically stop it getting in

I try to block out the noise and focus.

  • mentally shut it out — figurative

Goes with

  • block out + light/noise
Practice saying this
Next meaning: avoid remembering

Meaning 2

avoid remembering

  • block out sth

To try not to think about or remember something unpleasant or unwanted.

How oftenNow and then
LevelB2
Used inSpeech & writing

Examples

She tries to block out the memories of the accident.

A: Do you ever think about what happened last year?
B: Not really. I try to block it out and move on.

Common mistake

Not: He tries to block out from the memory.

Say: He tries to block out the memory.

'Block out' takes the object directly — no 'from'.

More on “avoid remembering”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip

Another example

Some people block out negative experiences as a way to protect their mental health, but I think it's better to talk about them.

Tell it apart

He's blocked out that whole year.

  • deliberately shut the memory away

He's forgotten that whole year.

  • it's simply gone

Goes with

  • block out + memory/feeling
Practice saying this
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prevent light or soundavoid remembering