The cupboard is bare
phrase
Refers to a situation where resources or supplies have been used up and nothing is left.
We had a successful food drive last month, but after the holiday rush, the cupboard is bare again.
Often appears as...
- the cupboard is bare for anything
- due to the debt
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
Refers to a situation where resources or supplies have been used up and nothing is left.
We had a successful food drive last month, but after the holiday rush, the cupboard is bare again.
Often appears as...
- the cupboard is bare for anything
- due to the debt
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Resource Depletion
Use it to express that everything has been used up, often in a resource or supply context.
After the weekend event, the cupboard is bare. We need to restock.
Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use
It can metaphorically describe any situation where there's a lack of something.
When it comes to volunteers, the cupboard is bare; we need more people.
Pro Tip 3/3Economic Context
It's often used to discuss finances or budgeting, hinting at no money left.
The company can't afford raises this year—the cupboard is bare.
Pro Tip 1/3Resource Depletion
Use it to express that everything has been used up, often in a resource or supply context.
After the weekend event, the cupboard is bare. We need to restock.
Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use
It can metaphorically describe any situation where there's a lack of something.
When it comes to volunteers, the cupboard is bare; we need more people.
Pro Tip 3/3Economic Context
It's often used to discuss finances or budgeting, hinting at no money left.
The company can't afford raises this year—the cupboard is bare.
Pro Tip 1/3Resource Depletion
Use it to express that everything has been used up, often in a resource or supply context.
After the weekend event, the cupboard is bare. We need to restock.
Pro Tip 2/3Metaphorical Use
It can metaphorically describe any situation where there's a lack of something.
When it comes to volunteers, the cupboard is bare; we need more people.
Pro Tip 3/3Economic Context
It's often used to discuss finances or budgeting, hinting at no money left.
The company can't afford raises this year—the cupboard is bare.
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