fag out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fag out" is not correct and should not be used in written English.
It is an informal/slang phrase that originates from a sexual slur and is used to mean "tire out" or "run out of energy." Other phrases such as "wear out," "run out of steam," or "become exhausted" are more appropriate to use in written English. Example: After ten hours of studying, I was completely fagged out and needed a break.

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

I remember stubbing the fag out on the floor of the smoking carriage – remember because of the way the rubberised grooves always seemed to me purpose-designed to accommodate butts.

The Guardian - Books

Erica stubs her fag out under her heel and gives me a brief nod, before lazily strolling over towards the car.

Vice

Even in heels, if they held it up above their heads I'd have to jump up like a showdog to snatch the fag out of their hands.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And yet, the very first thing out of his mouth – once he's stubbed the fag out – gives a pretty good idea of how he would he prefer to be seen, and how he sees himself.

The Guardian

Perhaps the only problem was the danger of it putting his fag out.

BBC

But then a Seat driven by a man dangling a fag out of the window slid past and I remembered once more that things were different here.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Millions of office workers enjoy a furtive fag out-of-doors now that many offices are smoke-free.

The Economist

Up when we have to be at half-past three in the morning, on time, no problems, no fagging out in the barn.

The Guardian - Music

I was finally fagging out a little.

Vice

And with me fagging out to Ke$ha's album?

Huffington Post

This will continue to decline till you become totally fagged out and unable to do any single task again.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "fag out" in formal or professional contexts due to its potential to offend. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "tire out" or "become exhausted".

Common error

Many are unaware of the derogatory connotations of "fag" in some regions, leading to its inappropriate use. Always consider your audience and the potential for misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fag out" primarily functions as a phrasal verb, indicating a state of exhaustion or the act of taking a break. Although Ludwig shows the expression in various contexts, its usage is cautioned due to potential offensiveness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fag out" is a phrasal verb that can mean to take a break or to become exhausted. However, Ludwig AI highlights that the term "fag" can be offensive, particularly in North America, where it's a derogatory term for a homosexual person. Therefore, it's advisable to use alternative phrases like "tire out", "become exhausted", or "take a break", especially in professional or formal contexts. This approach avoids potential misunderstandings and ensures clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become exhausted

Replaces the slang term with a more neutral and widely accepted phrase for losing energy.

tire out

A more standard and polite way to say that someone or something has become very tired.

wear out

Emphasizes the depletion of energy and strength through prolonged use or activity.

run out of steam

An idiomatic expression indicating a loss of energy or enthusiasm.

lose energy

A straightforward and neutral way to describe a decrease in vitality.

become weary

Suggests a state of tiredness combined with a decline in motivation.

flag out

Similar sound but it is not related in meaning. It is more related to flagging a user or piece of content.

burn out

Implies a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress.

collapse from exhaustion

Describes a sudden and severe loss of strength, often due to extreme fatigue.

give out

When used in relation to a person, implies physical failure or collapse due to exhaustion.

FAQs

What does "fag" mean in the phrase "fag out"?

In the phrase "fag out", "fag" is a slang term for a cigarette. The phrase means to take a break, often for a smoke. However, be aware that "fag" is also a derogatory term for a homosexual person in some dialects.

Is it okay to use the phrase "fag out"?

While the phrase "fag out" might be common in some dialects to mean taking a cigarette break or getting tired, it's best to avoid it due to the potential for offense. Use alternatives like "take a break" or "become exhausted" instead.

What can I say instead of "fag out" to mean "become tired"?

You can use phrases like "tire out", "wear out", or "become exhausted". These alternatives are more neutral and less likely to cause offense.

Where does the phrase "fag out" come from?

The phrase "fag out", meaning to take a break or get tired, is derived from the British slang term "fag" for cigarette. However, be mindful that the word has other meanings and can be offensive in different contexts.