Milk/suck somebody/something dry

usgb
verb

To use up all of someone's or something's resources.

The big corporation moved into the small town and immediately started to milk the local resources dry
Visual representation of "milk/suck somebody/something dry" - To use up all of someone's or something's resources

Often appears as...

  • milk someone dry
  • milk the situation dry

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "milk/suck somebody/something dry"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Use

The phrase often represents draining resources or advantages, not just money.

Illustration for Metaphorical Use
Uncontrolled tourism might milk the island's natural beauty dry.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Connotation

Implies a selfish or harmful intention behind the action.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Venture capitalists were accused of milking the startup dry.
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Idiomatic Nature

It's an idiom, meaning it shouldn't be taken for its literal sense.

Illustration for Idiomatic Nature
The new manager is said to milk the budget dry in his previous company.
Visual representation of the word "Milk/suck somebody/something dry"

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