Differences between black out and shut out
Black out means to lose consciousness or to make something dark by turning off the lights or covering it. Shut out means to exclude someone or something from a place, group, or activity.
Meanings and Definitions: black out vs shut out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Black out
- 1Fall unconscious.
He BLACKED OUT and collapsed on the floor.
- 2Lose light.
Everything BLACKED OUT when the power supply failed.
Shut out
- 1Exclude.
You have to SHUT your feelings OUT to deal with it.
- 2Not allow a player or team to score.
The Dodgers SHUT OUT the Giants 3-0.
Usage Examples: black out, shut out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
black out
Example
The city blacked out during the storm.
Example
She blacks out whenever she sees blood.
shut out
Example
She shut out her friends when she was upset.
Example
He shuts out his family when he's angry.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Black out
To lose consciousness briefly due to a lack of oxygen or blood flow to the brain.
Example
She fainted during the concert due to the heat and the crowd.
To become unconscious or unaware of one's surroundings.
Example
The patient lost consciousness after the surgery and woke up hours later.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Shut out
To prevent someone or something from being included or considered.
Example
The new policy excludes employees who don't have a college degree from applying for management positions.
To refuse to accept or consider someone or something.
Example
The university rejected his application due to his low grades and lack of experience.
To exclude or reject someone from a group or society.
Example
The community ostracized him after he was accused of stealing from his neighbors.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “shut”
Differences in black out vs shut out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: black out or shut out?
In daily conversation, people use shut out more often than black out. This is because shut out is used in various contexts such as sports, relationships, and politics. Black out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about losing consciousness or when there's a power outage. So, while both phrases are used, shut out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of black out and shut out
Black out and shut out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of black out and shut out
The tone of black out and shut out can differ based on context. Black out often carries a serious or alarming tone when related to losing consciousness or power outages, while shut out typically has a negative or defensive tone, especially when referring to excluding someone or something.
black out & shut out: Synonyms and Antonyms
Black out
Antonyms
- illuminate
- brighten
- light up
- regain consciousness
- wake up
- power on
- restore power
