Meaning 1 · most common
become exhausted from overwork
To become so tired, stressed or fed up from working too hard for too long that you lose your energy and enthusiasm.
Examples
After years of campaigning for environmental reform, many activists burn out on the cause and struggle to stay involved.
A: You used to love painting—why did you stop?
B: Honestly, I just burned out on it after pushing myself so hard for that last exhibition.
Common mistake
Not: He burned out from the music.
Say: He burned out on music. / He lost his passion for music.
'Burn out ON' something you've lost enthusiasm for.
More on “become exhausted from overwork”Another example · Tell it apart · Goes with · Tip
Another example
Some argue that without adequate support, teachers may burn out on their profession, leading to a decline in educational quality.
Tell it apart
I'm completely burned out.
He's burned out on teaching.
Goes with
- burn out (on)