burn out
🕯️ burn out
Concrete Meaning
To experience total physical and mental exhaustion caused by extreme, prolonged stress or overwork.
💬 Context & Examples
Used frequently in workplace and health contexts to describe someone who has pushed themselves too hard for too long.
- "If you keep working 80-hour weeks without a vacation, you're going to burn out by December."
- "The tech startup culture is notorious for causing early employee burn out."
🧠 Pattern Challenge
Test Yourself
What happens when a candle or an engine literally "burns out"?
Show Answer
It has completely consumed all of its fuel and can no longer produce any light, heat, or energy.