Explanation of "Block Out"
Definition: The phrase "block out" is a verb that means to prevent something from entering or being seen. It can also mean to plan or organize something in a rough way.
Usage Instructions
Use "block out" when you want to talk about stopping light or noise from coming in.
You can also use it when discussing planning events or performances, like organizing songs in a play.
Examples
Preventing Light:
Planning:
Advanced Usage
In a more advanced context, "block out" can be used in theater or event planning to refer to the process of outlining the arrangement of various elements, such as actors’ positions and movements on stage.
Word Variants
Blockout (noun): A term used to describe the action of blocking out, especially in artistic settings (e.g., "The artist created a blockout of the painting before adding details").
Blocked out (past tense): Referring to something that has already been prevented from entering or has been planned.
Different Meanings
To prevent light: "The thick trees can block out the sun."
To forget or ignore something: "She tried to block out the painful memories from her past."
To plan: "The director blocked out the scenes for the upcoming play."
Synonyms
Prevent: Stop something from happening or entering.
Obscure: Make something difficult to see or understand.
Schedule: Arrange or plan.
Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs
Block someone out: To ignore or avoid someone emotionally or socially.
Block off: To close an area to prevent access (e.g., "They had to block off the street for the parade").
Block in: To prevent someone from leaving by parking close to them (e.g., "I was blocked in by the cars parked too close").
Summary
"Block out" is a versatile phrase in English that can mean to prevent light or sound, ignore thoughts, or plan something.