What is the origin of the idiom "run on fumes" and when to use it?
The exact origin of the idiom "run on fumes" is unclear, as it has become a common idiomatic expression in the English language. The usage of "fumes" in this context likely stems from the idea of a vehicle running on the vapors or remaining traces of fuel, indicating that it is nearly out of gas.
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*** (of an engine or vehicle) to have almost no fuel left