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burn the candle at both ends

phrase

: to use one's resources or energies to excess

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burnt carmine
burn the candle at both ends
burn the midnight oil
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Cite this Entry

“Burn the candle at both ends.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/burn%20the%20candle%20at%20both%20ends. Accessed 16 Dec. 2025.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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