become exhausted
After working twelve-hour days for months, she finally burned out and had to take a break.
burn out — 3 meanings
Same words, different jobs. Compare the meanings side by side so you know which one fits the situation.
phrasal verb3 meanings
burn outsame phrase
Which one do you mean?
stop burning or working
The light bulb burned out, so we need to replace it.
lose passion
After years of campaigning for environmental reform, many activists burn out on the cause and struggle to stay involved.
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Meanings in detail
1. become exhausted
B2neutralboth
To become extremely tired or lose motivation, usually because of working or studying too much for a long time.
After working twelve-hour days for months, she finally burned out and had to take a break.
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Sign in to unlock2. stop burning or working
B1neutralboth
To stop burning, shining, or working because of being used for too long or damaged.
The light bulb burned out, so we need to replace it.
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Sign in to unlock3. lose passion
C1neutralboth
To gradually lose enthusiasm, creativity, or emotional engagement with something, especially a project, activity, or cause, often due to prolonged effort or repeated disappointment.
After years of campaigning for environmental reform, many activists burn out on the cause and struggle to stay involved.
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