run into the ground: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘run into the ground’ mean?
The idiom "run into the ground" means to exhaust or use up completely, often through overuse or mismanagement.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "work into the ground" means to exhaust or overwork someone to the point of physical or mental fatigue.
The idiom "run late" means to be behind schedule or to not arrive or finish something on time.
The idiom "run into a brick wall" means to encounter an obstacle or difficulty that is impossible to overcome or make progress with.
The idiom "run down the clock" refers to a situation where a person intentionally takes actions to use up time, usually in order to avoid or delay a specific event or outcome.
The idiom "run around after" means to constantly be busy or occupied attending to someone or something. It suggests a sense of being constantly on the move or dealing with various tasks and responsibilities.
The idiom "run a risk" means to take a chance or engage in an activity that could have negative consequences or uncertain outcomes.
The idiom "run afoul of" means to come into conflict or opposition with someone or something, often resulting in negative consequences or punishment.
The idiom "run about" means to move or travel quickly and randomly in different directions.
The idiom *rain down* means to fall or descend in large quantities or with force, often used metaphorically to describe a sudden and overwhelming occurrence or event.
Reviving Tires, Renovating Meanings
The idiom "run into the ground" refers to overusing or exhausting something to the point where it becomes ineffective, loses value or quality, or is no longer enjoyable or successful. This figurative expression draws upon imagery related to agriculture, specifically the process of continuously plowing or tilling the same piece of land until it becomes barren and unproductive.
In a financial context, "run into the ground" means mismanaging or depleting financial resources through excessive spending or poor decisions, resulting in financial ruin. For example, a business that spends frivolously without considering profitability or sustainability may run into the ground. This idiom is related to the phrase "work into the ground," which means to exhaust oneself or work excessively without taking breaks or considering one's well-being.
In a creative context, "run into the ground" can describe the repetitive and excessive use of a particular idea, concept, or trend, ultimately leading to its depletion or exhaustion. This can occur in various fields, such as literature, art, music, or fashion, where an idea or style becomes so overused that it loses its originality and impact. An example of this is when a popular song is played incessantly on the radio and eventually becomes disliked or ignored by listeners. Similarly, the phrase "run into a brick wall" can describe encountering an insurmountable obstacle or difficulty, preventing further progress or success.
On a personal level, "run into the ground" can be applied to relationships or activities that have been overworked or overdone, resulting in a loss of interest, passion, or enjoyment. For example, a hobby that once brought joy and fulfillment may become monotonous and uninspiring if pursued incessantly, causing it to be "run into the ground." This idiom is related to the phrase "work into the ground," as excessive work or overcommitment can have similar effects on personal well-being and relationships.
The figurative nature of the idiom "run into the ground" allows it to be used in a wide range of situations, emphasizing the negative consequences of excessive or repetitive actions. It serves as a cautionary reminder to avoid overworking or overusing something, as doing so can diminish its value and ultimately lead to its demise. To prevent this from happening, it is important to find a balance and practice moderation in order to maintain the effectiveness, enjoyment, and sustainability of our actions and endeavors.
The idiom "run into the ground" signifies the act of depleting or exhausting something through excessive or repetitive actions, resulting in its decreased value, effectiveness, or enjoyment. Whether in financial, creative, or personal contexts, this idiom serves as a warning against overusing or overworking something, highlighting the importance of balance and moderation. Its origins may be traced back to agricultural practices, but its usage and meaning have evolved to encompass a wide range of contemporary scenarios. As with many idioms, the true extent of its possible applications and connotations remains open to interpretation and further exploration.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "run into the ground" can be used in a sentence:
- He worked so much overtime that he ran himself into the ground.
- The company's mismanagement has run the once successful business into the ground.
- Her constant micromanaging of the team is starting to run employee morale into the ground.
More "Overuse" idioms
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