burn the candle at both ends
The phrase "burn the candle at both ends" originates from the idea that lighting a candle at both ends will cause it to burn out faster, symbolizing overexertion and exhaustion.
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Definition
B2General
(informal)To overwork oneself by staying up late and waking up early, leading to exhaustion.
Example
- She has been burning the candle at both ends to meet the project deadline.
- If you keep burning the candle at both ends, you'll end up sick.
C1General
(dated)To waste resources or effort in a way that is unsustainable.
Example
- In the past, people would say you were burning the candle at both ends if you spent money recklessly.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "burn the candle at both ends":