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deplete funds
/dɪˈpliːt fʌndz/
use up money
The company had to deplete funds to cover unexpected losses.
The company had to use all its available money to pay for unexpected losses.
Finance
formal
to use up or exhaust available money, especially financial reserves
Due to the economic downturn, the nonprofit had to deplete its emergency funds.
The nonprofit had to spend all its saved money because of the bad economy.
Investors warned that the startup was depleting funds too quickly.
Investors said the startup was spending its money too fast.
Often implies a negative consequence, such as leaving little or no money remaining.
Collocations
deplete reservesuse up saved moneydeplete savingsspend all saved moneyrapidly deplete fundsspend money very quickly
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Use with caution
This phrase often implies a negative situation, such as financial distress. Avoid using it in contexts where spending money is expected or positive.
Gold Rule
Connotation matters
The phrase 'deplete funds' carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the spending is undesirable or unsustainable. Use alternatives like 'allocate funds' if the spending is planned or beneficial.
Word Origin
From Latin 'deplere' (to empty), via Old French 'depleir', meaning 'to empty out'. 'Funds' comes from Latin 'fundus' (bottom, foundation), originally referring to money set aside for a specific purpose.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in financial and business contexts to describe the reduction of financial reserves. Avoid using in informal contexts unless discussing finances.
Word Breakdown
deplete
to reduce or use up gradually
verbfunds
available money or financial resources
nounEnglish Dictionary