running dry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "running dry" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where a resource, such as money or energy, is becoming depleted or exhausted. Example: "After months of heavy spending, our budget is running dry, and we need to find ways to cut costs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And they are running dry.

The Economist

"But, wells are running dry.

The Guardian

The well is running dry".

The New York Times - Arts

And the North Sea is running dry.

The Economist

"That's kind of running dry right now".

The New York Times

Perhaps he is running dry on catharsis.

The New York Times - Sports

Up and down the Valley, the wells are running dry.

The New Yorker

The brunch bacchanalia shows no sign of running dry.

The New York Times

While McQueen had many anxieties, running dry wasn't among them.

The New Yorker

Her throat was running dry at this point.

The New York Times

In rural Maine, shallow wells are running dry.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "running dry" to describe emotional or creative resources, consider whether a more vivid metaphor might be more impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "running dry" without clarifying the underlying cause of the depletion. For instance, instead of stating "Motivation is running dry", explain "Motivation is running dry due to the repetitive nature of the tasks".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "running dry" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a continuous verb tense. Ludwig AI indicates it's a correct and usable expression. It describes the process of something being depleted or exhausted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "running dry" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that describes the depletion or exhaustion of resources, both tangible and intangible. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. While versatile, consider alternatives like "becoming depleted" or "dwindling" for nuanced meanings. Be mindful of clarifying the underlying causes of depletion for effective communication. It's frequently found in "news and media", demonstrating its relevance across various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

becoming depleted

This alternative focuses on the process of reduction, implying a gradual decrease in quantity or resources.

dwindling

This word suggests a gradual decline in number or amount, often to a very small quantity.

diminishing

Similar to dwindling, but can also apply to a decrease in importance or quality.

being exhausted

Emphasizes the state of being completely used up, with no remaining resources.

reaching its end

This phrase implies that something is nearing its termination point.

drying up

A more literal alternative, particularly suitable when referring to water sources or financial resources.

petering out

Suggests a gradual fading away or coming to an end, often unexpectedly.

becoming scarce

Highlights the increasing rarity or limited availability of something.

in short supply

Indicates that something is available in quantities that are less than demanded.

running low

Suggests that the quantity of something is decreasing and needs to be replenished soon.

FAQs

How can I use "running dry" in a sentence?

The phrase "running dry" is used to describe something that is being used up or depleted. For example, "The well is running dry" or "My patience is running dry".

What can I say instead of "running dry"?

You can use alternatives like "becoming depleted", "dwindling", or "being exhausted" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "running dry" or "running out"?

Both "running dry" and "running out" are acceptable. "Running dry" often implies a gradual depletion, especially of resources like water or money, while "running out" can apply to a broader range of things. The best choice depends on the specific context.

Can "running dry" be used for abstract concepts?

Yes, "running dry" can be used for abstract concepts like creativity, patience, or motivation. For example, "My creative juices are running dry" is a perfectly acceptable usage.