Phrasal verbs "burn out" vs "burn up"

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

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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

To lose energy or motivation and become unable to continue doing something.

Example

After working for 12 hours straight, she ran out of steam and decided to take a break.

To reach a point of exhaustion or physical/mental limitation.

Example

During the marathon, he hit the wall at mile 20 and struggled to finish the race.

To gradually lose momentum or interest and come to an end.

Example

Their relationship fizzled out after a few months of dating, and they decided to remain friends.

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.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “burn”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

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

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