Differences between run down and run out of
Run down means to criticize or speak negatively about someone or something, while run out of means to use up all of something and have none left.
Meanings and Definitions: run down vs run out of
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 of
- 1Have none left.
We've RUN OUT OF sugar; I'm going to the shops for some.
Usage Examples: run down, run out of 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 of
Example
We run out of milk often because we drink a lot of coffee.
Example
She always runs out of printer ink at the worst times.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run down
To express disapproval or judgment about someone or something.
Example
The movie received mixed reviews, and some critics criticized the plot and acting.
To belittle or speak negatively about someone or something.
Example
He always disparages his colleagues' ideas during meetings, which makes them feel demotivated.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run out of
use up
To consume or exhaust all of something.
Example
I used up all my savings to buy a new car, so I need to start saving again.
To reduce or exhaust the quantity or supply of something.
Example
The company depleted its resources to launch a new product, which affected its profitability.
To use up completely or drain all the energy or resources of something.
Example
After running a marathon, she felt exhausted and had no energy left to do anything else.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “run”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Phrasal Verbs with “out of”
Differences in run down vs run out of: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: run down or run out of?
Both phrases are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, run out of is more frequently used than run down because it's related to daily activities like running out of food, money, or time. Run down is used less often and usually in specific situations where someone wants to express their negative opinion about something or someone.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of run down and run out of
Run down and run out of are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of run down and run out of
The tone of run down and run out of can differ based on context. Run down often carries a critical or negative tone when referring to someone or something, while run out of typically has a neutral or slightly negative tone, especially when referring to running out of resources or time.
