What does “Tune out” mean?
The phrase "Tune out" means 'Stop paying attention' or 'Ignore.' When someone uses "Tune out", they are referring to intentionally disengaging from a situation or conversation, disregarding what is being said or happening around them. This can be done to avoid boredom, annoyance, or simply to mentally distance oneself from the current topic or environment.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
I tend to tune out during long meetings and start daydreaming.
Example
When my parents start arguing, I usually tune out their voices.
Example
The boring lecture made it hard for me not to tune out and focus on something else.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1In meetings or lectures
During long meetings, I tend to tune out and start daydreaming.
The boring lecture made it hard for me not to tune out and focus on something else.
- 2During arguments or disagreements
When my parents start arguing, I usually tune out their voices.
I try to tune out the noise when people around me are arguing.
- 3In situations where attention is not required
When I'm on a long car ride, I often tune out and listen to music.
During repetitive tasks, I tend to tune out and let my mind wander.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "tune out" is a phrasal verb that originated in American English. It is commonly used in informal conversations and has become popular in modern culture.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
While "tune out" is often used in a sentence, it can also be used on its own to convey the idea of not paying attention. For example, if someone is talking to you and you're not interested, you might simply say "tune out" to indicate that you're not listening.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "tune out" is not offensive. It is a slang term used to describe the act of stopping or ceasing to pay attention.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "tune out" is commonly used by English speakers, particularly in the United States. It is understood by people familiar with informal language and slang.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "tune out" is primarily used in the United States, but it can also be understood in other English-speaking regions. It is not specific to a particular accent or region.
