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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Describe an overloaded schedule, depleted energy, and the point when hard work becomes too much.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcript“Burn the candle at both ends” pictures someone using up energy by staying busy from early morning to late at night. The episode links this pace with getting “burned out”—feeling deeply tired after too much effort. The image comes from a candle that cannot keep burning indefinitely when it is used at both ends.
Cultural note: The phrase usually signals an unsustainable workload, not simply a full calendar. It can sound concerned or mildly critical. If you are discussing someone else, ask how they are managing rather than treating constant busyness as an achievement.
Keep exploringA packed schedule can look productive at first; these phrases help describe what it costs in energy.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Talk about an intense schedule that stretches across the day.
Meaning
Keep an exhausting pace by being active from early in the day until late at night.
Tone & use
Informal; often implies that the pace is tiring or cannot continue for long.
Example
“Between her new role and evening classes, she has been burning the candle at both ends.”
Describe exhaustion after a long period of effort.
Meaning
Extremely tired or emotionally drained after prolonged effort or stress.
Tone & use
Common in work, study, and caregiving contexts; stronger than simply needing a short break.
Example
“After months of weekend shifts, the whole team felt burned out.”
Meaning
Spend so much physical or mental effort that little energy remains.
Tone & use
A direct, neutral alternative to a vivid idiom.
Example
“The extra meetings used up my energy before I could start the report.”
Recognize how work can extend into late hours.
Meaning
Work or study late into the night.
Tone & use
Informal; focuses on late hours, not necessarily on being busy all day too.
Example
“I burned the midnight oil to finish the presentation before Monday.”
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