Running low
Meaning
To have a diminishing or nearly depleted supply of something.
Origin
The phrase "running low" paints a vivid picture of a diminishing supply, evoking the steady, unstoppable flow of water from a source, or the gradual emptying of a container. Imagine a well's water level visibly "running low" during a dry spell, or a candle's wax "running low" as it melts away. This everyday observation of resources steadily depleting, without any sudden stop, naturally led to the idiom. It captures the essence of a gradual but certain decline, giving us a simple yet powerful way to express scarcity, whether it's fuel in a tank or patience in a person.
Examples
- We're running low on milk, so I'll need to stop at the store on the way home.
- The team is running low on energy after that intense practice session.