Quick Definition
Run Out Of — To use all of a supply and have none left.
Meanings of Run Out Of
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Exhaust a supply | We've run out of milk — can you buy some? | There is no milk left. |
| Have no more time/ideas | I'm running out of ideas for the presentation. | I have almost no ideas left. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| We've run out of milk — can you buy some? | There is no milk left. |
| I'm running out of ideas for the presentation. | I have almost no ideas left. |
| "Don't worry -- I'll run out of it." | Using it in a short reassurance. |
| She decided to run out of the whole situation. | Applying the phrasal verb in context. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: inseparable | Transitivity: transitive
Three-part inseparable phrasal verb. Always followed by a noun: run out of time. Cannot be split.
How to Use Run Out Of
Neutral. Very common in everyday conversation and writing.
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken | We've run out of milk — can you buy some? |
| Neutral / Written | Consider context; single-word synonyms may suit formal writing. |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Run Out Of
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Run Out Of
What does "Run Out Of" mean?
"Run Out Of" means: To use all of a supply and have none left. It is a transitive phrasal verb rated CEFR B1.
Is "Run Out Of" separable or inseparable?
"Run Out Of" is inseparable. Three-part inseparable phrasal verb. Always followed by a noun: run out of time. Cannot be split.
How do I use "Run Out Of" in a sentence?
We've run out of milk — can you buy some? -- in this example, 'Run Out Of' means there is no milk left.
What is the register of "Run Out Of"?
Neutral. Very common in everyday conversation and writing.
What CEFR level is "Run Out Of"?
"Run Out Of" is typically taught at CEFR B1 — Intermediate level. It appears frequently in neutral contexts.
What is the difference between "Run Out Of" and similar phrasal verbs?
"Run Out Of" specifically means: To use all of a supply and have none left. Compare with similar verbs in the 'Similar Phrasal Verbs' section below for nuanced differences.
Can "Run Out Of" be used formally?
Neutral. Very common in everyday conversation and writing. When writing formally, consider whether a single-word synonym might be more appropriate for the context.
Does "Run Out Of" take an object?
"Run Out Of" is transitive. Three-part inseparable phrasal verb. Always followed by a noun: run out of time. Cannot be split.
How can I practise "Run Out Of"?
Use LexFizz's Find the Match and Flip Tiles exercises to practise 'Run Out Of' in context. Seeing it in multiple sentences helps the meaning stick.
Is "Run Out Of" used in British or American English?
"Run Out Of" is used in both British and American English, though register and frequency may vary. Neutral. Very common in everyday conversation and writing.