blackout

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The word "blackout" can have several meanings, and it can be used in different contexts. Let's break it down simply:

Basic Definition

1. Memory Loss: A "blackout" can refer to a situation where someone cannot remember things that happened for a period of time. For example, if someone drinks too much alcohol, they might not remember what happened during that time.

   • Example: "After the party, he had a total blackout and couldn’t remember anything from that night."

2. Loss of Consciousness: It can also mean a momentary loss of consciousness, like fainting.

   • Example: "She felt dizzy and then experienced a blackout for a few seconds."

3. Power Outage: A "blackout" can mean that there is no electricity in a large area. This could be due to a storm or other problems.

   • Example: "The city experienced a blackout after the storm knocked out the power lines."

4. Media Suspension: It can also refer to stopping radio or television broadcasts, often for security reasons.

   • Example: "There was a blackout of news coverage during the emergency."

Usage Instructions

• You can use "blackout" in both formal and informal conversations. Just make sure the context is clear to avoid confusion about which meaning you are using.

Advanced Usage

• In psychology, "blackout" might refer to specific types of memory loss related to trauma or substance use.
• In military terms, a "blackout" can refer to a deliberate shutdown of lights to avoid detection by enemy aircraft.

Word Variants

• Blackout (noun): refers to the instances described above.
• Blackout (verb): to lose consciousness or memory.
  • Example: "He blacked out during the intense workout."

Different Meanings

• In a more metaphorical sense, "blackout" can refer to a situation where someone feels overwhelmed and cannot think clearly.

Synonyms

• For memory loss: amnesia, forgetfulness.
• For power outage: power failure, outage.
• For media suspension: broadcast suspension, media blackout.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• There aren’t common idioms that include "blackout," but you might hear phrases like "to have a blackout" when talking about memory loss or fainting.

Summary

"Blackout" is a versatile word that can describe various situations involving memory loss, power outages, or media suspensions.

Academic

Noun

1. partial or total loss of memory
   • he has a total blackout for events of the evening
2. a momentary loss of consciousness
3. the failure of electric power for a general region
4. darkness resulting from the extinction of lights (as in a city invisible to enemy aircraft)
5. a suspension of radio or tv broadcasting

Synonyms

• amnesia
• memory loss
• brownout
• dimout