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Phrasal verbs "block out" vs "keep out"

Differences between block out and keep out

Block out means to prevent something from entering a space or to ignore or forget something intentionally. On the other hand, keep out means to prevent someone or something from entering a particular place.

Meanings and Definitions: block out vs keep 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.

Keep out

  • 1Not allow someone to enter.

    The police KEPT the demonstrators OUT of the building.

Usage Examples: block out, keep 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.

keep out

Example

Please keep out of the construction zone for your safety.

Example

The fence keeps out wild animals from the garden.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Block out

tune out

To ignore or stop paying attention to someone or something.

Example

She tried to tune out her noisy neighbors by listening to music with headphones.

forget about

To intentionally ignore or disregard something or someone.

Example

He decided to forget about his ex-girlfriend and move on with his life.

blank out

To forget or fail to remember something, especially under stress or pressure.

Example

During the exam, she blanked out and couldn't remember the answer to the last question.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep out

bar entry

To prevent or prohibit someone from entering a particular place or area.

Example

The bouncer was instructed to bar entry to anyone who didn't have a valid ID.

shut out

To prevent or exclude someone or something from entering or participating in a particular activity or situation.

Example

She felt shut out of the group discussion because nobody asked for her opinion.

lock the door

To secure a door with a lock to prevent unauthorized access.

Example

Before going to bed, he always makes sure to lock the door to keep intruders out.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “block”

Phrasal Verbs with “keep”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in block out vs keep out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: block out or keep out?

Both block out and keep out are commonly used in daily conversations, but keep out is more frequently used than block out. This is because keep out is a more straightforward phrase that is used in various contexts, such as warning signs, security measures, and personal boundaries.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of block out and keep out

Block out and keep out are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, keep out can be used in more formal settings, such as official warnings or legal documents, while block out is less likely to be used in such contexts.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of block out and keep out

The tone of block out and keep out can differ based on context. Block out often carries a negative or defensive tone when related to ignoring or forgetting something, while keep out typically has a protective or authoritative tone, especially when referring to preventing access to a specific area or object.

block out & keep out: Synonyms and Antonyms

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