Differences between block out and drown out
Block out means to prevent light or sound from entering a place, while drown out means to make a noise so loud that it prevents other sounds from being heard.
Meanings and Definitions: block out vs drown out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Block out
- 1Stop light from entering or leaving.
The trees BLOCK the sun OUT most of the day.
- 2Try not think about or feel something because it is upsetting or painful.
It was so unpleasant that I try to BLOCK it OUT- otherwise, I'd just be angry all the time.
Drown out
- 1Be so loud that another sound cannot be heard.
The music DROWNED OUT the sound of the phone ringing.
Usage Examples: block out, drown out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
block out
Example
She uses thick curtains to block out the sunlight in her bedroom.
Example
He blocks out the light from the street with blackout curtains.
drown out
Example
The loud music drowned out the sound of the phone ringing.
Example
The construction noise drowns out the birds singing.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Block out
To make something unclear or difficult to see or understand.
Example
The fog was so thick that it obscured the view of the mountains.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Drown out
To be stronger or more intense than something else, making it impossible to ignore or resist.
Example
The smell of freshly baked bread overpowered the scent of the flowers in the garden.
To speak or shout louder than someone else in order to be heard.
Example
She had to outshout the crowd to get the attention of the speaker.
To reduce or deaden the sound of something.
Example
He used earplugs to muffle the noise of the traffic outside his window.
Differences in block out vs drown out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: block out or drown out?
Both block out and drown out are commonly used in daily conversation, but drown out is more frequently used. This is because people often use it to describe situations where they can't hear something because of a loud noise. Block out is used less often, mainly when talking about light or vision.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of block out and drown out
Block out and drown out are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday conversations. However, drown out can be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts when referring to noise pollution.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of block out and drown out
The tone of block out and drown out can differ based on context. Block out often carries a practical or functional tone when related to light or vision, while drown out typically has a negative or annoyed tone, especially when referring to unwanted noise.
