strung-out
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: * Addicted to a drug: In a state of severe physical or psychological dependence on a drug, often characterized by visible signs of distress, exhaustion, or ill health due to substance abuse.
Usage
This adjective is used to describe a person who is suffering from the effects of long-term drug addiction. It often implies a visible state of deterioration, both physically and mentally. * It typically functions as a predicate adjective, coming after a linking verb like "be," "look," or "seem." * It can sometimes be used attributively before a noun, though this is less common.
Examples
- After years of heroin use, he looked completely strung-out.
- The police found the suspect in a strung-out state, unable to communicate clearly.
- She was worried her brother was strung-out on methamphetamine.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used more informally or hyperbolically to describe someone who is extremely exhausted, anxious, or emotionally drained, even without reference to drugs.
- After working three night shifts in a row, I feel completely strung-out.
Variants and Related Words
- Strung out: This is the phrasal verb form from which the adjective is derived. It means to be under the influence of or suffering from withdrawal of a drug.
- He was strung out on cocaine.
Synonyms
- Addicted
- Hooked (informal)
- Dependent
- Junkie (slang, often used as a noun)
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Strung out: As mentioned above, this is the verbal form.
- He's been strung out for months.
Related Idioms
- To be wired: Slang for being under the influence of stimulants.
- To be dope-sick: Specifically refers to the sickness associated with opioid withdrawal.