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Definition

To be losing enthusiasm or willingness; to lack motivation.

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Origins

An allusion to a vehicle operating with the fuel gauge pointing to empty or near empty, likely to stop running in the very near future.

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In Context

  • "Near-synonyms: run on fumes, run out of steam"
  • "He has been running on empty for a while. It's likely the project will be canceled."
  • "Doctors and nurses on the front lines are running on empty, under increasing duress as the pandemic surges and hospitals are overrun with patients."
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Also Said As

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Related Idioms

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To contravene.

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run and gun

To do something hastily and with great energy.

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run off

To make photocopies, or print.

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run out

To use up or consume all

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run up

To make something, usually an item of clothing, very quickly.
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