# run on fumes

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/run-on-fumes
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

By extension, to operate with few resources, or be physically or emotionally overworked.

## Examples

- I am exhausted and running on fumes today.
- After working three double shifts in a row, the tired nurse was clearly running on fumes.
- Despite the project deadline looming, the exhausted team continued to work, though they were effectively running on fumes.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.