consume

[kənˈsjuːm]

consume Definition

  • 1to eat or drink something
  • 2to use up a resource
  • 3to be engrossed or absorbed in something

Using consume: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "consume" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She consumed the entire pizza by herself.

  • Example

    The factory consumes a lot of energy.

  • Example

    He was consumed with guilt over what he had done.

  • Example

    The fire consumed the entire building.

consume Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for consume

Idioms Using consume

  • to be preoccupied or obsessed with one's own thoughts or concerns

    Example

    He consumed himself with worry over the outcome of the trial.

  • consume one's life

    to take up all of one's time, energy, or attention

    Example

    Her job consumed her life, leaving little time for anything else.

  • to feel intense jealousy or resentment towards someone

    Example

    She was consumed with envy when she saw her friend's new car.

Phrases with consume

  • to have an intense longing or craving for something

    Example

    He was consumed with desire for her, unable to think of anything else.

  • to destroy completely by burning

    Example

    The forest was consumed by fire, leaving nothing but ash and debris.

  • to take up or require a significant amount of time

    Example

    The project consumed all of his free time for weeks on end.

Origins of consume

from Latin 'consumere', meaning 'to use up'

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Summary: consume in Brief

The verb 'consume' [kənˈsjuːm] has three main meanings: to eat or drink something, to use up a resource, and to be engrossed or absorbed in something. It can refer to physical consumption, as in 'She consumed the entire pizza by herself,' or emotional consumption, as in 'He was consumed with guilt.' 'Consume' also appears in phrases like 'consume with desire' and idioms like 'consume oneself,' which denote intense preoccupation or obsession.

How do native speakers use this expression?