What are the definitions of “block out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “block out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb block out is to prevent light from entering or leaving a space. For example, it can mean using curtains to keep sunlight from entering a room or using a barrier to stop light from escaping.
What are the different verb forms of “block out”?
| Root Verb | block out |
| Third Person Singular Present | blocks out |
| Present Participle | blocking out |
| Simple Past | blocked out |
| Past Participle | blocked 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.
Example
The trees are blocking out the sun, making the area shady.
Example
They blocked out the light from the window to watch the movie.
Example
The light was blocked out by the heavy curtains.
What kind of phrasal verb is “block out”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“block out” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She blocked out the sunlight with curtains.
Example
He blocked the light out with a barrier.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“block out” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She blocked out the sunlight with curtains.
Example
He blocked the light out with a barrier.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “block out”?
Good things to know
Does “block out” have an informal or formal tone?
Block out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
