All Ears English Podcast AEE 2471: Out of Energy or Out of Power? What’s the Difference?
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Sep 2, 2025 The podcast explores the intriguing distinction between feeling 'out of energy' and 'out of power' in communication. It dives into the language surrounding power outages, using personal anecdotes to illuminate the nuances. Listeners hear about the differences between scheduled and unexpected outages, complete with role-play scenarios. The hosts share practical vocabulary tips for navigating the frustrations of power loss during storms while emphasizing the importance of clear communication in both everyday and global contexts.
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Energy vs. Electrical Power
- The phrase "run out of energy" is idiomatic for a person being tired, not for electrical outages.
- Using it for power outages will cause confusion because listeners think you mean fatigue.
Specify Energy When Talking Electricity
- Use phrases like "energy supply" or "sources of energy" when referring to electricity in a general or technical sense.
- Add descriptors (electrical, renewable) to clarify you're discussing power rather than personal stamina.
Chunks Determine Meaning
- Idiomatic chunks (like "out of energy") lock meanings that differ from literal words.
- Recognizing chunks helps avoid misunderstandings when learners translate word-for-word.