ENGLISH
REFERENCE

run out of steam

idiom
Meaning

To run out of energy or motivation.


Examples
SIMPLE

I always run out of steam by the end of the day.

CONTEXTUAL

We worked on the project for six hours before we started to run out of steam.

COMPLEX

Although the team began the marathon with great enthusiasm, they eventually ran out of steam as the grueling final miles approached.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    blow off steam

    To vent; to talk or take action (especially in a ranting or unrestrained way) so as to relieve stress.

  2. 02

    break into a run

    To start running.

  3. 03

    common run

    Ordinary persons, things, or events.

  4. 04

    dry run

    A practice or rehearsal; especially, one that goes through all the motions of a physical process but without the raw material or workpiece present.

  5. 05

    dummy run

    A trial or practice before the real attempt.

  6. 06

    employ a steam engine to crack a nut

    To carry out a simple task in an overcomplicated manner.

  7. 07

    good run

    Success over an extended period.

  8. 08

    head of steam

    A significant amount of energy, vigour or momentum, sufficient to make progress or succeed in a task.

Last updated April 17, 2026