running out of stuff

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "running out of stuff" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in informal contexts to indicate a depletion of resources or supplies. Example: "We're running out of stuff for the party, so we need to go shopping soon."

✓ Grammatically correct

The phrase is versatile and can be used across various domains including News & Media, Wiki, and general conversation.

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Running out of stuff to quantify?

TechCrunch

"We're always short of something; we're constantly getting donations and constantly running out of stuff," she said.

The Guardian

Actually, one of the surprises of the last couple of centuries is that we are not running out of stuff.

The New York Times - Magazine

For people who were heavy users of music or books going on holiday entailed staving off the dread possibility of running out of stuff.

The Guardian

I'm running out of stuff.

TechCrunch

"We've been running out of stuff so frequently, it's just easier than erasing the chalkboard every time," Ross joked.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Some heirloom and specialty seed houses run out of stuff before spring.

WikiHow

Do striking skits, acting out with outrageous talking parts; Make video of yourself playing a video game and chatting about the latest odd stuff, and you never seem to run-out of stuff... Use a personal boom-cam (camera mounted on a light weight pole) attached to your waist, or somehow strapped on, with the rigging out of sight to video yourself out-and-about.

WikiHow

Running out of juice before the last girl struts her stuff is a no-no.

WikiHow

Running out of steam.

The Economist

Running out of runners.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure the context clearly defines what "stuff" refers to, whether it is physical goods, abstract ideas, or something else, to prevent ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "running out of stuff" in formal or professional writing. Opt for more precise and professional language like "depleting resources" or "exhausting supplies" to maintain a formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "running out of stuff" functions as a verb phrase indicating the depletion or near-exhaustion of resources. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It describes a process of reduction until something is almost or completely gone.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "running out of stuff" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express the depletion of resources. Ludwig AI validates its usability, though it's more appropriate for neutral to informal contexts. The phrase appears across various categories, with News & Media being the most frequent. When writing, consider the audience and context, opting for more formal alternatives like "depleting resources" in professional settings. This phrase effectively communicates scarcity and is widely understood, making it a useful addition to one's vocabulary. Always be mindful of the context and audience to ensure the chosen phrase aligns with the desired tone and level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

running low on supplies

Indicates a nearing point of complete depletion.

exhausting supplies

Emphasizes the complete consumption of available supplies.

depleting resources

Focuses on the gradual reduction of available resources.

diminishing reserves

Highlights reducing stores or preserved quantities.

dwindling stock

Highlights a decreasing amount of items available.

becoming scarce

Indicates the increasing difficulty to find or obtain something.

reaching empty

Suggests approaching a state where nothing remains.

drying up

Emphasizes that the source of something is disappearing.

at the end of one's rope

Metaphorically indicates a lack of resources or patience to continue.

out of ideas

Specifically suggests a lack of inspiration or plans.

FAQs

What does "running out of stuff" mean?

The phrase "running out of stuff" means that the supply of something is being depleted or is nearly exhausted. It implies a scarcity or impending lack of resources, ideas, or materials.

How can I use "running out of stuff" in a sentence?

You can use "running out of stuff" in a sentence like this: "We're "running low on supplies" for the camping trip, so we need to restock." or "The company is "depleting resources" if they don't innovate soon.

What are some alternatives to "running out of stuff"?

Some alternatives to "running out of stuff" include "depleting resources", "exhausting supplies", or "dwindling stock". The best choice depends on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "running out of stuff" in formal writing?

While "running out of stuff" is perfectly understandable, it's generally better to use more formal alternatives such as "depleting resources" or "exhausting supplies" in professional or academic contexts.