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burn out

B1 neutral separable both
In simple words

To get so tired from working too hard that you can't carry on, or for something to stop working.

Literal meaning: To burn until the fire extinguishes itself by running out of fuel.

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic neutral

To become completely exhausted mentally and physically, especially from overwork.

"After three years of twelve-hour days, she finally burned out and took a leave of absence."

Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 neutral

(Of a fire or flame) to stop burning because the fuel has been used up.

"The campfire burned out around midnight, leaving everyone in darkness."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 neutral

(Of a machine, engine, or electrical component) to stop functioning due to excessive heat or overuse.

"The motor burned out after running continuously for 48 hours without a break."

Grammar: separable
4 B2 neutral

To destroy the inside of a building by fire, leaving only the shell.

"The arsonists burned out three cars in the car park overnight."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

The psychological sense (suffering burnout from work stress) is extremely common and recognised as a medical phenomenon. The mechanical sense (a motor burning out) is also very common. 'Burnout' (noun) is widely used in health, education, and workplace contexts.

Commonly used with

motor fuse doctor teacher candle star

Forms

Base
burn out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
burns out
he/she/it
Past simple
burned out
yesterday
Past participle
burned out
have + pp
-ing form
burning out
continuous

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