run out of steam
Meaning
To lose energy, motivation, or momentum and be unable to continue at the same level, often before finishing something.
Origin
From steam-powered engines: when the steam supply ran low, the machine lost power and slowed or stopped. The image became a metaphor for people or efforts losing momentum.
Notes
Common, informal-neutral. Implies fading energy or momentum before completion; used for people, teams, plans, or trends. Can suggest both fatigue and loss of motivation.
Examples
-
We worked fast all morning, but by mid-afternoon we started to run out of steam.
-
The campaign ran out of steam after the first debate.
-
I was writing steadily, then I ran out of steam and couldnβt finish the chapter.
-
They dominated early, but the team ran out of steam in the second half.
-
The project might run out of steam unless we get more funding.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase as a phrasal verb: run/ran/running out of steam. Often intransitive (βI ran out of steamβ), but can describe subjects like plans/campaigns. Rarely takes a direct object.
Synonyms
- lose momentum
- lose energy
- tire out
- fade
- peter out
- fizzle out
Antonyms
- gain momentum
- gather steam
- pick up steam
- keep going
- power through