Know Your English | What Does ‘Running on Fumes’ Mean?
The phrase “running on fumes” is a popular English idiom used to describe a situation where someone continues to function despite being very tired, exhausted, or having very little energy or resources left.
Origin and Meaning
The idiom originally comes from the idea of a car running out of gas but still moving forward on the tiny amount of fuel vapors—or “fumes”—left in the tank. Similarly, when a person is “running on fumes,” they are pushing themselves to keep going even when they have almost no energy or motivation left.
How to Use ‘Running on Fumes’ in a Sentence
After working 14 hours straight, I was running on fumes by the end of the day.
The company was running on fumes until the new funding arrived.
She was running on fumes but still managed to finish the project.
FAQ Section
What does “running on fumes” mean?
It means continuing to work or function with very little energy or resources left.
Where does the phrase come from?
It originates from cars running out of fuel but still moving on the last traces of gasoline vapor.
Can “running on fumes” refer to things other than people?
Yes, it can describe machines, companies, or any entity operating with very limited resources.
Is “running on fumes” a formal phrase?
No, it is informal and commonly used in conversational English.
How is “running on fumes” different from “running on empty”?
Both phrases are similar, but “running on fumes” emphasizes the tiny remaining amount fueling continued effort.
Published on: June 24, 2025
Uploaded by: PAVAN
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