Before you resort to shutting the world out with dentist-office blinds, consider these other strategies.

Peter sat back in the deck chair, shutting out the voices with an effort of will.

It was the first time they have been shut out since a 16-0 encounter with Florida in 1984.

You're not going to run away this time, or turn deaf ears, and shut out my voice with your blank stare.

He couldn't stop the House's alarms, but he could shut them out with a spell of his own.

Arie and Train (up for four awards) are shut out by competition with better brand recognition.

Although they gained more yards than the 49ers, the Eagles were shut out in a rainy game with 51 miles per hour winds.

I shut out Delia's thoughts with a firm resolve to work on keeping my shields up.

The car parks are very strict where they are now shut out with normal opening hours.

"Look-" He shut out the light and the secretary's presence with the palm of his hand.