What does “Run something into the ground” mean?
"Run something into the ground" means to use or do something excessively or to the point of causing damage or exhaustion.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He ran his car into the ground by driving it nonstop for years without proper maintenance.
Example
The company ran their employees into the ground by making them work long hours without breaks.
Example
She ran her voice into the ground by singing for hours without resting, causing strain and damage
Is “Run something into the ground” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Run something into the ground” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Run something into the ground” effectively in context?
You can use "Run something into the ground" to describe the act of using or doing something excessively or to the point of causing damage or exhaustion. It emphasizes the negative consequences of overuse or overwork. For example, if someone is constantly working without taking breaks, you might say, 'He's running himself into the ground.'
- 1Personal Life
She ran her car into the ground by driving it nonstop for years without proper maintenance.
- 2Work
The company ran their employees into the ground by making them work long hours without breaks.
- 3Physical Health
She ran her voice into the ground by singing for hours without resting, causing strain and damage.
Similar phrases to “Run something into the ground”:
Overdo something
To do something to an excessive or extreme degree
Example
She overdid it with the exercise and ended up injuring herself.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Run something into the ground” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Run something into the ground" is unknown.
Is “Run something into the ground” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Run something into the ground" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where something is being used or done excessively, leading to negative consequences.
What tone does “Run something into the ground” have?
"Run something into the ground" conveys a tone of warning or criticism. It suggests that the excessive use or work is detrimental and should be avoided.
Can “Run something into the ground” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Run something into the ground" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of excessive use or work leading to negative consequences. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He ran his car into the ground by neglecting regular maintenance.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Don't run it into the ground!' to imply the need to avoid excessive use or work.
