English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Done in
Meaning
The idiom "done in" means to be so worn out or exhausted that one can no longer function properly. It often implies that someone has reached their breaking point and is unable to continue.
Usage
- After working long hours on the project, John was completely done in and fell asleep at his desk.
- The stress of dealing with her demanding boss had left Maria feeling done in for weeks.
- Despite their busy schedules, the team made sure to take breaks and not get too done in during practice.
- After a long day of classes, the students were all done in and eagerly awaited their weekend plans.
- The exhaustion from traveling across the country had left Tom feeling completely done in and ready for some rest.
Roots and History
The idiom "done in" has been in use since the 16th century, according to the Oxford English Dictionary. It originally referred to being finished or completed, but its meaning gradually evolved to include exhaustion and weariness. The term may have roots in the idea of being "knocked out" by fatigue or stress.
Synonyms in English
- Exhausted
- Worn out
- Drained
- Spent
- Tired
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: cansado/cansada (worn out/tired)
- French: fatigué/fatiguée (exhausted/tired)
- German: ausgeschöpft/ausgeschöpft (exhausted/tired)
- Italian: stanco/stanca (worn out/tired)
- Russian: изнуренный/изнурена (exhausted/tired)