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Reference : Phrasal Verbs : S : shut out (2)

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shut out (2)

Meaning: to stop yourself thinking about or feeling something that upsets you or hurts you

Synonym: block out, suppress

For example:

  • shut out sth She still finds it difficult to shut out the memory of her grandmother's illness.

  • shut sth out The thought of losing her is unbearable, and no matter how hard I try, I just can't shut it out.

Quick Quiz:

Bobby tried to shut out the thought of
  1. that terrible night
  2. that funny movie
  3. that exciting game