"spaced out" vs "zone out"

Question

"spaced out" vs "zone out"

Both 'zone out' and 'spaced out' are correct phrases in English. They are informal expressions used to describe a state of distraction or absent-mindedness. The choice between them is a matter of personal preference or regional usage.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

It means to be in a state of mental disconnection or to be unaware of one's surroundings. It is often used interchangeably with 'zone out.'

Examples:

She looked like she was spaced out during the lecture.
I spaced out and missed what he said.
Don't space out while I'm talking to you.
He tends to space out when he's bored.
I feel like I'm spacing out after a long day.

Alternatives:

zone out
drift off
daydream
lose focus
become distracted

It means to lose concentration or focus on what is happening around you. It is often used in casual conversations or when talking about being mentally absent.

Examples:

I tend to zone out during long meetings.
She zoned out while watching TV.
Don't zone out while driving.
I always zone out when I'm tired.
He tends to zone out when he's stressed.

Alternatives:

space out
drift off
daydream
lose focus
become distracted

Answer 1

spaced out

This phrase is correct and commonly used in informal contexts to describe a state of distraction or absent-mindedness.

Answer 2

zone out

This phrase is correct and commonly used in informal contexts to describe a state of distraction or absent-mindedness.

"spaced out" vs "zone out"

spaced out

zone out

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