English Reference
adjective · noun · verb

blank

adj. · n. · v.
US /ˈbɫæŋk/ UK /blˈæŋk/ blank UK spelling Blanks

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    adj.having no writing, images, or marks on it.

    adj.devoid of writing, print, or distinctive marks; referring to a surface ready to be filled.

    Simple

    Please take out a blank sheet of paper for the spelling test.

    In context

    The architect stared at the blank canvas for hours before drawing the first lines of the museum's floor plan.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.showing no feeling or understanding on your face.

    adj.showing a lack of expression, interest, or comprehension; often used of a person's face or gaze.

    Simple

    He just gave me a blank look when I asked him for help.

    In context

    The witness maintained a blank expression throughout the cross-examination, refusing to betray any sign of nervousness or guilt.

    expressionlessvacantdeadpan
  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    n.an empty space on a form or document where you should write something.

    n.a space left empty in a document or form, intended to be filled with specific information.

    Simple

    Fill in the blanks with the correct form of the verb.

    In context

    The contract contained several critical blanks that had not been initialled by either party, rendering the agreement legally questionable.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Military

    n.a type of bullet that makes a loud noise but does not fire a piece of metal.

    n.a cartridge containing gunpowder but no projectile, used in training or theatrical performances to simulate gunfire.

    Simple

    The soldiers were only using blanks during the training exercise in the woods.

    In context

    The film crew ensured that all weapons were loaded with blanks to prevent any accidental injuries during the high-intensity action sequence.

    blank cartridge
    live round
  5. 05 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    n.a moment when you suddenly cannot remember something.

    n.a sudden, temporary failure to recall information or a specific memory.

    Simple

    My mind went a complete blank when the teacher asked me the question.

    In context

    Despite weeks of preparation, he drew a total blank when the interviewer asked him to describe his greatest professional failure.

  6. 06 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    v.to suddenly be unable to remember something you usually know.

    v.to experience a sudden, temporary inability to retrieve information from memory; often used with 'on'.

    Simple

    I'm sorry, I'm totally blanking on your name right now.

    In context

    The presenter started the speech confidently but began blanking on the specific statistics halfway through the second slide.

    Usage

    Often used in the progressive form 'blanking on' followed by a noun phrase.

  7. 07 C1 Advanced British EnglishSlangInformal

    v.to pretend you do not see or hear someone you know.

    v.to deliberately ignore someone, typically by failing to acknowledge their presence or greeting.

    Simple

    I saw her at the mall, but she completely blanked me.

    In context

    After their argument at the party, he spent the rest of the week blanking her in the office corridors.

  8. 08 C1 Advanced American EnglishInformal Sport

    v.to stop the other team from scoring any points in a game.

    v.to prevent an opponent from scoring any points or goals during a match.

    Simple

    The home team blanked the visitors 4-0 in a dominant performance.

    In context

    The underdog team managed to blank the reigning champions for three quarters before finally conceding a goal in the final minutes.

    shut out
This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated