burn the candle at both ends
Filed under B
In a sentence
- She has been burning the candle at both ends, working long hours during the day and staying up late to study at night.
- My cousin's health started declining because he was burning the candle at both ends, constantly partying and neglecting his sleep.
- The entrepreneur burned the candle at both ends to meet the demands of running two successful businesses simultaneously.
Where it comes from and how it is used
The idiom "burn out" is closely related to the phrase "burn the candle at both ends." It refers to the state of exhaustion and depletion that occurs when someone has been overworking or pushing themselves too hard for an extended period of time. Burnout is often characterized by physical, mental, and emotional fatigue, as well as a decreased sense of motivation and satisfaction in one's work or personal life.
When someone is burning the candle at both ends, they are essentially setting themselves up for burnout. By constantly exerting themselves, neglecting self-care, and disregarding the need for rest and relaxation, individuals increase their risk of reaching a point where they can no longer sustain their current pace. This can have serious consequences on their overall well-being and productivity.
The idiom "someone's heart out" can also be connected to the concept of burning the candle at both ends. It is used to describe someone who puts all their effort, energy, and passion into something. This phrase suggests that individuals who are burning the candle at both ends are doing so with great intensity and dedication. They are fully committed to their work or obligations, often to the point of neglecting other aspects of their lives.
By incorporating these related idioms into the discussion of burning the candle at both ends, we can further emphasize the negative consequences of overworking and neglecting self-care. Burnout, insomnia, and an imbalanced focus on work can all contribute to a decline in physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It is important for individuals to recognize the dangers of such lifestyles and make conscious efforts to prioritize their health and overall happiness.
Ultimately, burning the candle at both ends, burning the midnight oil, and giving one's heart out all exemplify the potential hazards of excessive busyness and a lack of balance in life. These idioms serve as reminders to individuals to take care of themselves, set boundaries, and strive for a more sustainable and fulfilling existence. By heeding their messages, we can avoid burnout, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and cultivate a greater sense of overall well-being.
Neighbouring idioms
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.