blot out

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Definition

Verb: 1. To completely obscure, conceal, or obliterate: To make something undecipherable, imperceptible, or invisible by covering it, hiding it, or destroying it. 2. To erase from memory or consciousness: To suppress or try to forget a memory, thought, or feeling.

Usage

The verb "blot out" is used to describe the action of making something disappear or become unreadable/unrecognizable, either physically or mentally. It often implies a deliberate or forceful act of covering or erasing. - It is typically used with an object (a transitive verb). - Common structures: "blot out [something]" or "[something] is blotted out."

Examples
  • Physical Obscuring:
    • The thick fog blotted out the sun.
    • He used a marker to blot out the sensitive information in the document.
  • Mental Suppression:
    • She tried to blot out the painful memories of the accident.
    • He blotted out all thoughts of failure and focused on the task.
Advanced Usage
  • "to blot someone/something out": Can imply a complete and often violent destruction or removal.
    • The bombing raid aimed to blot out the entire village from the map.
  • Used in a figurative sense to describe overwhelming something else.
    • The loud music blotted out all other sounds in the room.
Variants and Related Words
  • Blot (verb): To stain or spot; to dry with an absorbent material. (e.g., )
  • Obliterate (verb): To destroy completely; to wipe out. A stronger synonym.
  • Efface (verb): To erase or make indistinct; to make oneself inconspicuous.
Synonyms
  • Obscure
  • Conceal
  • Eradicate
  • Expunge
  • Veil
Related Phrasal Verbs
  • Block out: To prevent light or sound from entering; to plan or sketch roughly. (e.g., / )
    • Note: "Block out" can be similar to "blot out" for physical obscuring but is more neutral. "Blot out" often carries a connotation of eradication.
Related Idioms
  • A blot on the landscape: Something that spoils the appearance of a place.
    • The old factory was a blot on the landscape.
  • A blot on one's escutcheon: A stain on one's reputation or honor. (Formal/archaic)
    • The scandal was a blot on the family's escutcheon.
Verb
  1. make undecipherable or imperceptible by obscuring or concealing
    • a hidden message
    • a veiled threat

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