The phrase "ran low" is spelled with four letters, and its IPA phonetic transcription is /ræn loʊ/. The "r" is pronounced with a slightly rolled or flipped tongue, followed by the short vowel "a" sound, represented by the symbol "æ". The "n" sound is pronounced by touching the tongue to the roof of the mouth and forcing the air out through the nose. The second word, "low", is pronounced with a long "o" sound, represented by the symbol "oʊ". The phrase suggests a decrease in quantity or amount.
"Ran low" is a phrase used to describe a situation in which the quantity or level of something is diminishing or becoming scarce. It signifies that there is a limited amount remaining or that the available supply is slowly depleting. The phrase is primarily used to describe the reduction or depletion of tangible items such as food, water, fuel, or other physical resources.
When something "runs low," it implies that the initial or previous abundance of the item is gradually dwindling, and there is a need for replenishment or conservation. It can refer to a shortage or near-exhaustion of a stock or supply. For example, if a household's water supply runs low, it suggests that there is a decreasing amount of water available for use or consumption.
The term is also commonly used to describe decreasing levels of intangible resources, such as patience, energy, motivation, or morale. When someone's patience runs low, it indicates that their tolerance or capacity to endure has diminished, and they may become more easily frustrated or irritated.
In summary, "ran low" refers to the state in which the level or quantity of something is declining or becoming scarce, either in the case of physical resources or intangible qualities. It suggests a need for replenishment or conservation to avoid complete exhaustion or depletion.
The phrase "ran low" doesn't have a specific etymology because it is not a single word but a combination of two words: "ran" and "low".
The word "ran" is the past tense of the verb "run", which comes from the Old English word "rinnan". It has Germanic roots and is related to similar words in other Germanic languages.
The word "low" is an adjective that describes something at a small height or level. It originates from the Old English word "hlāw", which meant "mound" or "hill". Over time, it evolved to also represent the concept of something being near the ground or at a lower point.
When combined, the phrase "ran low" generally means that something or someone reached a lower or reduced state after a period of running or usage. The etymology of the individual words contributes to the overall meaning of the phrase.