running on empty

USAGE SUMMARY

"running on empty" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is an idiom used to describe a situation where a person is feeling depleted of energy, motivation, resources, or inspiration. Example Sentence: After a long day of work, she felt like she was running on empty.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Her film credits include "Running on Empty" and "The Paper".

The New York Times

In a makeshift lunchroom for ironworkers, a radio played "Running on Empty".

The New York Times

Running on empty.

Science Magazine

* Check out another exclusive performance ("Running on Empty") here.

Huffington Post

"It is just one more expression of a democracy that is running on empty".

The New Yorker

However, if I'm running on empty, unmotivated, procrastinating, sick and exhausted -- no one wins.

Huffington Post

DETROIT is running on empty.

The Economist

I think she was running on empty".

The New York Times - Sports

"This thing was running on empty".

The New Yorker

The American economy is running on empty.

The New York Times

Now it's running on empty.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotation of near-failure when using "running on empty". It suggests a critical state where continuing is difficult.

Common error

Avoid using "running on empty" solely for financial situations; while it can imply a lack of resources, it's more effective when describing energy, motivation, or other non-monetary depletions. For purely financial contexts, consider phrases like "operating on a shoestring".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "running on empty" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically used as a predicate adjective to describe a state of depletion or exhaustion. Ludwig AI indicates this is a correct and usable phrase. Examples from Ludwig showcase it describing personal energy levels, organizational resources and even abstract concepts such as democracy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "running on empty" is a widely recognized idiomatic phrase that effectively conveys a state of depletion or exhaustion, whether physical, emotional, or resource-based. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in diverse writing contexts. The phrase sees frequent use in News & Media. When using "running on empty", consider the scope of depletion and avoid limiting it solely to financial contexts. Alternatives like "running on fumes" or "completely drained" can offer similar meanings with subtle variations. Be mindful of the near-failure connotation, and ensure the context clarifies the type of depletion being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

running on fumes

Very similar meaning, but more specific to energy or fuel and often implies near-failure.

out of steam

Indicates a loss of energy or enthusiasm, often after a period of intense activity.

totally exhausted

Focuses specifically on physical or mental tiredness, unlike "running on empty" which can apply to other resources.

completely drained

Focuses on the feeling of being emptied of energy or resources, similar to being exhausted.

completely depleted

Emphasizes total exhaustion of resources or energy; broader application than "running on empty".

stretched to the limit

Highlights the strain and pressure experienced when resources are scarce, rather than the state of depletion itself.

at the end of one's rope

Implies desperation and a loss of coping ability, adding an emotional element not always present in "running on empty".

burned out

Implies chronic stress and exhaustion, often in a professional context, with potential emotional and psychological implications.

resource-depleted

More formal and general term, applicable to a wide range of resources not just personal energy.

operating on a shoestring

Specifically refers to managing with very limited financial resources, not general depletion.

FAQs

How can I use "running on empty" in a sentence?

You can use "running on empty" to describe a state of exhaustion, lack of motivation, or depletion of resources. For example, "After working two jobs, I'm really "running on empty"".

What's a good alternative to saying "running on empty"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "running on fumes", "completely drained", or "totally exhausted".

Is "runs on empty" grammatically correct?

While "running on empty" is an idiomatic phrase, "runs on empty" is not as common and may sound awkward. Stick to "running on empty" to describe a state of depletion or use alternative phrasing.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "running on empty"?

Use "running on empty" when you want to convey that someone or something is continuing to operate despite a significant lack of essential resources like energy, motivation, or funds. It's suitable when the situation is critical but not yet completely failed.