Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

run something into the ground

idiomatic expression

/rʌn ˈsʌmθɪŋ ˌɪntu ðə ɡraʊnd/

Definition

To exhaust or deplete something through excessive use or effort.

Examples

They ran the old car into the ground by taking it on long trips every weekend.
After working for a year without a break, she felt like she had run her energy into the ground.
If you keep pushing that marketing strategy, you’ll run it into the ground before it even takes off.

Meaning

This phrase means to continue to exploit or work something until it is completely worn out or damaged, often disregarding the consequences. It can refer to physical objects, relationships, or resources.