Differences between keep out and run out
Keep out means to prevent someone or something from entering a place, while run out means to use up all of something and have none left.
Meanings and Definitions: keep out vs run out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Keep out
- 1Not allow someone to enter.
The police KEPT the demonstrators OUT of the building.
Run out
- 1To be used up or exhausted.
Luck which could continue indefinitely, or run out at any time.
- 2To expire or come to an end.
My contract runs out next July.
- 3To expire or reach the end of validity.
When does your passport run out?
Usage Examples: keep out, run out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
keep out
Example
Please keep out of the construction zone for your safety.
Example
The fence keeps out wild animals from the garden.
run out
Example
We need to buy more milk because we ran out.
Example
She always runs out of time before finishing her work.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep out
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run out
use up
To consume or exhaust all of something.
Example
She used up all the ink in the printer and had to buy a new cartridge.
To reduce or exhaust the quantity or supply of something.
Example
The drought depleted the water reserves in the region, causing a severe shortage.
To use up completely or drain all the energy or resources of something.
Example
The long hike exhausted her, and she had to take a break before continuing.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “run”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in keep out vs run out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: keep out or run out?
In daily conversation, people use run out more often than keep out. This is because run out is used for common situations such as running out of food or money. Keep out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we want to warn someone not to enter a specific area. So, while both phrases are used, run out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of keep out and run out
Keep out and run out 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 keep out and run out
The tone of keep out and run out can differ based on context. Keep out often carries a warning or threatening tone when related to preventing access, while run out typically has a disappointed or worried tone, especially when referring to running out of essential items.