Differences between run down and run out
Run down usually means to criticize or speak negatively about someone or something, while run out generally means to use up or exhaust a supply of something.
Meanings and Definitions: run down vs run out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Run down
- 1Hit a pedestrian with a vehicle.
The minicab RAN him DOWN on the zebra crossing.
- 2Lose energy or power.
You should only recharge the battery when it has fully RUN DOWN.
- 3Criticise, disparage.
They're always RUNNING me DOWN and I am sick and tired of it.
- 4Find the source or origin of something.
The police RAN DOWN all the leads they had and caught them.
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: run down, run out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
run down
Example
My phone battery always runs down quickly when I use it a lot.
Example
His energy runs down quickly when he doesn't get enough sleep.
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 Run down
To express disapproval or negative comments about someone or something.
Example
She always criticizes her coworkers behind their backs.
To speak negatively or slanderously about someone or something.
Example
He constantly badmouths his ex-girlfriend to anyone who will listen.
To harshly criticize or attack someone or something.
Example
The movie critic slammed the new blockbuster for its lack of originality.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run out
use up
To consume or exhaust a supply of something.
Example
We used up all the paper towels cleaning up the spill.
To reduce or exhaust a resource or supply of something.
Example
The drought depleted the town's water supply.
To use up completely or drain a resource or supply of something.
Example
The long hike exhausted all of our energy and water bottles.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “run”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
- chow down
- boil down
- play down
- simmer down
- swear down
Differences in run down vs run out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: run down or run out?
In daily conversation, people use run out more often than run down. This is because run out is used for more daily tasks and routines such as running out of milk or running out of time. Run down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about criticizing something or someone. So, while both phrases are used, run out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of run down and run out
Run down 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 run down and run out
The tone of run down and run out can differ based on context. Run down often carries a negative or critical tone when related to speaking about something or someone, while run out typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to using up a supply of something.
