Meaning trap

block out

avoid remembering

To try not to think about or remember something unpleasant or unwanted.

phrasal verbB2occasional

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

avoid remembering

To try not to think about or remember something unpleasant or unwanted.

block out (prevent light or sound)

Another meaning of 'block out' is 'prevent light or sound'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

She tries to block out the memories of the accident.relationships
Some people block out negative experiences as a way to protect their mental health, but I think it's better to talk about them.IELTS speaking

Pattern: block out + noun

WrongHe tries to block out from the memory.

RightHe tries to block out the memory.

'Block out' takes the object directly — no 'from'.

Patternblock out + noun

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff She has suppressed all recollection of the accident.

Natural She's blocked out the whole accident.

'Block out' is the natural verb for shutting a painful memory away; 'suppressed all recollection' is clinical.

Words that usually travel with it.

'Forget' means you can't remember, but 'block out' means you try not to remember.

block out (prevent light or sound) — Another meaning of 'block out' is 'prevent light or sound'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.