Phrasal verbs "burn down" vs "burn out"

Differences between burn down and burn out

Burn down means to completely destroy a building or structure by fire, while burn out means to stop working or functioning properly due to overuse or exhaustion.

Meanings and Definitions: burn down vs burn out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Burn down

  • 1Burn completely.

    They had to completely rebuild the museum after the old one BURNED DOWN.

Burn out

  • 1Lose enthusiasm and energy to continue in a demanding job.

    Jennie BURNT OUT after ten years working as a futures broker and went to live in the country.

Usage Examples: burn down, burn out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

burn down

Example

The old barn burned down after being struck by lightning.

Example

If the fire isn't controlled, the entire forest burns down.

burn out

Example

Many people burn out after working long hours for years.

Example

He burns out quickly when he takes on too many projects.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Burn down

To completely ruin or demolish a building or structure using fire.

Example

The old warehouse was destroyed by fire and left in ruins.

To be destroyed or consumed by fire.

Example

The entire house went up in flames within minutes, leaving nothing behind.

To completely burn something until it turns into ashes.

Example

The forest fire reduced the entire village to ashes, leaving nothing but devastation behind.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Burn out

To become exhausted or unusable due to overuse or excessive wear and tear.

Example

The old car wore out after years of constant use and needed to be replaced.

To gradually lose energy, enthusiasm, or momentum.

Example

The team lost steam towards the end of the game and ended up losing.

To suddenly become exhausted or unable to continue due to physical or mental fatigue.

Example

After running for hours, she hit the wall and had to stop to catch her breath.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “burn”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in burn down vs burn out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: burn down or burn out?

In everyday conversation, burn out is more commonly used than burn down. This is because burn out can be used in various contexts such as work, relationships, and personal life. On the other hand, burn down is a more specific term that is only used when referring to a building or structure being destroyed by fire.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of burn down and burn out

Burn down and burn out are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, burn down may be considered more serious or dramatic due to its association with destruction.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of burn down and burn out

The tone of burn down and burn out can differ based on context. Burn down often carries a sense of tragedy or loss, while burn out typically has a more neutral or resigned tone, especially when referring to exhaustion or overuse.

burn down & burn out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Burn down

Synonyms

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