What does “Running on empty” mean?

"Running on empty" means continuing to do something even though you have no energy or resources left.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I've been running on empty all week, but I can't afford to take a break.

Example

He's been running on empty for months, working two jobs to make ends meet.

Example

She kept running on empty until she finally collapsed from exhaustion

Is “Running on empty” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Running on empty” 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 “Running on empty” effectively in context?

You can use "Running on Empty" to describe a situation where someone continues to do something despite having no energy or resources left. It emphasizes the idea of pushing oneself beyond limits. For example, if a friend is working long hours without taking breaks, you might say, 'You've been running on empty all week, but you need to take some time for yourself.'

1Work
I've been running on empty all week, but I can't afford to take a break.
2Financial Struggles
He's been running on empty for months, working two jobs to make ends meet.
3Physical Exhaustion
She kept running on empty until she finally collapsed from exhaustion.

Similar phrases to “Running on empty”:

Burning the candle at both ends

To work or do too much, often to the point of exhaustion

Example

He's been burning the candle at both ends, working two jobs and studying at night.

Hitting a wall

To reach a point of physical or mental exhaustion where further progress becomes difficult

Example

After studying for hours, she hit a wall and couldn't focus anymore.

Running on fumes

To continue doing something with very little energy or resources remaining

Example

He's been running on fumes all day, but he needs to finish the project.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Running on empty” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Running on Empty" is unknown.

Is “Running on empty” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Running on Empty" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where they are pushing themselves beyond their limits and continuing to do something despite having no energy or resources left.

What tone does “Running on empty” have?

"Running on Empty" conveys a tone of exhaustion and perseverance. It's often used to express the idea of pushing through difficult circumstances despite feeling depleted.

Can “Running on empty” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Running on Empty" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of continuing to do something despite having no energy or resources left. 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, 'She's been running on empty for weeks, but she keeps pushing herself.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I'm "running on empty"' to imply exhaustion.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

pushing oneself to the limit
exhausted but determined
depleted but persevering
running on reserve
operating on empty

Antonyms

resting and recharging
full of energy and resources
energized and ready
operating at full capacity