What are the definitions of “burn out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “burn out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb burn out is to lose enthusiasm and energy to continue in a demanding job or activity. It often happens when someone is under a lot of stress or pressure for a long time.
What are the different verb forms of “burn out”?
| Root Verb | burn out |
| Third Person Singular Present | burns out |
| Present Participle | burning out |
| Simple Past | burnt out |
| Past Participle | burnt out |
Example
Many people burn out after working long hours for years.
Example
He burns out quickly when he takes on too many projects.
Example
She is burning out from the constant stress of her job.
Example
They burnt out after working non-stop for months.
Example
She felt burnt out after years of working in a high-pressure environment.
What kind of phrasal verb is “burn out”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“burn out” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
He burnt out after working 80-hour weeks for years.
Example
She burns out easily when she doesn't take breaks.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“burn out” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
He burnt out after working 80-hour weeks for years.
Example
She burns out easily when she doesn't take breaks.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “burn out”?
A state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by long-term involvement in emotionally demanding situations or jobs.
Example
Many healthcare workers are experiencing burnout due to the ongoing pandemic.
Good things to know
Does “burn out” have an informal or formal tone?
Burn out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as discussions about mental health, workplace stress, and employee well-being.
