English Expression · Intermediate
run on fumes
To operate a vehicle that is low on fuel
Pronunciation: say run on fumes
Meaning
To operate a vehicle that is low on fuel.
Example
We were running on fumes by the time we arrived, but we made it to the next gas station.
We were running on fumes by the time we arrived, but we made it to the next gas station.
Practice tips
- Practice run on fumes out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.