Cool MateExhaust vs Run-out
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Exhaust
Top 5,000 (fairly common)C1noun
Run-out
Top 2,000 (common)
Most common: Run-out
| Exhaust | Run-out | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //ɪɡˈzɔːst//🇺🇸 //ɪɡˈzɔst// | 🇬🇧 //rʌn aʊt//🇺🇸 //rʌn aʊt// |
| Meaning | The state of being very tired or worn out. | When something is used up completely. |
| Example | After the marathon, I felt complete exhaust and could barely stand. | I ran out of milk, so I can't make coffee. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 5,000 (fairly common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | C1 | - |
| Part of speech | noun | |
| Collocations | mental exhaust, total exhaust, extreme exhaust | run out of gas, run out of time, run out of options, run out of stock, run out of patience |
| Antonyms | energy, vitality, refreshment | - |
| Common mistakes | Confused with 'exhaustion', using it in non-physical contexts., Using it as a verb instead of a noun., Overusing in informal situations like casual conversation about being tired. | Saying 'ran out of' when it should be 'run out of'., Using 'run out' without mentioning what is being run out., Confusing 'run out' with 'run away'. |
| Usage notes | Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. Not typically used when referring to casual tiredness; better for extreme fatigue. | Use 'run out' when something is finished, like food or resources. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts. |
Frequently asked questions: Exhaust vs Run-out
What's the difference between Exhaust and Run-out?
Exhaust: The state of being very tired or worn out. Run-out: When something is used up completely.
Which is more common: Exhaust and Run-out?
Run-out is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Exhaust: After the marathon, I felt complete exhaust and could barely stand. Run-out: I ran out of milk, so I can't make coffee.
Can I use Exhaust and Run-out interchangeably?
Not always. Exhaust and Run-out are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.