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idiom

Run Out of Steam

RUN owt uv STEEM

/rʌn aʊt əv stiːm/

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Syllable breakdown

RunOutofSteam

Dictionary meaning

To lose energy, enthusiasm, or momentum; to become too tired or depleted to continue an activity. Refers to a steam engine that has exhausted its fuel or pressure.

Examples

  • The reform movement ran out of steam after its key leader resigned.
  • I was doing well in the marathon but ran out of steam around mile 20.

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