Burn the candle at both ends

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idiom

To work very hard with little rest, generally referring to both early mornings and late nights.

Preparing for her final exam, she was burning the candle at both ends.
Visual representation of "burn the candle at both ends" - To work very hard with little rest, generally referring to both early mornings and late nights.

Often appears as...

  • work while burning the candle at both ends
  • burning the candle at both ends to meet deadline

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "burn the candle at both ends"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphoric Imagery

Picture a candle with two flames. It's a metaphor for using energy excessively.

Illustration for Metaphoric Imagery
He's surely burning the candle at both ends, studying till dawn and working right after.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Unsustainable Effort

It implies an effort that cannot be kept up for long without rest.

Illustration for Unsustainable Effort
She cannot keep burning the candle at both ends; she'll wear herself out.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Health Implications

It hints at potential negative effects on health from overwork.

Illustration for Health Implications
I worry about him burning the candle at both ends; it's not healthy.
Visual representation of the word "Burn the candle at both ends"

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