block out
To stop light, noise, or a bad thought from getting through to you; or to keep a time free.
Meanings
To prevent light or sound from passing through or being heard.
"These thick curtains are great for blocking out the morning sun."
To deliberately push away or suppress a memory, feeling, or thought.
"She tried to block out the memory of the accident, but it kept coming back."
To mark a period of time as reserved in a diary or schedule.
"I've blocked out two hours on Monday for report writing."
In theatre or film: to plan the movement and positions of actors on a stage or set.
"The director spent the morning blocking out the final scene."
Very versatile. Used literally (blocking sunlight, noise) and figuratively (blocking out memories or emotions). Also used in scheduling. Common in both British and American English.
Commonly used with
Forms
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Synonyms
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