ENGLISH
REFERENCE

consuming

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //kənˈsumɪŋ// UK //kənsˈuːmɪŋ// con·sum·ing

v. to eat, drink, or use something up. It can also mean that an activity or feeling takes up all of your time or energy.

v. to ingest food or drink, or to use up resources such as time or energy. Often used metaphorically to describe an emotion or interest that engrosses someone entirely.


SIMPLE

The new car is consuming too much fuel.

CONTEXTUAL

The fire was consuming the dry wood at an alarming rate before the rain started.

COMPLEX

A deep sense of guilt was consuming him, making it nearly impossible to focus on his professional responsibilities or maintain his social life.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

The verb is transitive and requires a direct object; when used metaphorically for emotions, it often appears in the passive voice.

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