Differences between burn out and burn up
Burn out and burn up are similar in that they both involve burning something, but they have different meanings. Burn out means to become exhausted or to stop working due to overuse or lack of resources, while burn up means to completely consume or destroy something with fire.
Meanings and Definitions: burn out vs burn up
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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.
Burn up
- 1Destroy completely by fire.
All his possessions were BURNED UP in the fire.
- 2Drive at high speed.
The bank robbers BURNED UP the roads but were soon captured.
- 3To be or cause to be highly annoyed.
His undeserved win in the election really BURNS me UP.
Usage Examples: burn out, burn up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
burn up
Example
The old building burned up in the fire.
Example
The dry grass burns up quickly in the hot sun.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Burn out
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Burn up
To burn something completely until it turns into ashes.
Example
The firefighters used a special technique to incinerate the hazardous waste and prevent it from spreading.
To consume or eat something quickly and eagerly.
Example
After the long hike, they devoured the pizza and drank cold beer to celebrate their achievement.
To completely destroy or eliminate something or someone.
Example
The army's mission was to annihilate the enemy's base and seize control of the territory.
Differences in burn out vs burn up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: burn out or burn up?
In everyday conversation, people use burn out more often than burn up. This is because burn out is a common phrase used to describe exhaustion or the end of something's usefulness. Burn up is less common and usually used in specific contexts such as wildfires or arson.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of burn out and burn up
Burn out and burn up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of burn out and burn up
The tone of burn out and burn up can differ based on context. Burn out often carries a negative or tired tone when related to exhaustion or failure, while burn up typically has a destructive or violent tone, especially when referring to fires or anger.
burn out & burn up: Synonyms and Antonyms
Burn out
Antonyms