Learn how to say you’re tired in English using phrases that sound natural and fluent, just like a native speaker. By learning these natural expressions, you will improve your English speaking skills and make your conversations more interesting.
This lesson is great for ESL learners who want to be more fluent and confident in everyday interactions, whether in business English, conversational English, or other real-life situations. Each phrase will help you build your vocabulary and speak English more fluently.
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ways to say I'm tired
How to Say You’re Tired in English
Harry
Today, we’re looking at different ways to say “I’m tired” in English. It’s something we all feel now and then, but did you know there are many ways to express just how tired you are? Whether you’re chatting with friends, at work, or trying to improve your English, knowing these phrases can help you say exactly what you mean.
Let’s jump right in and explore some creative and precise ways to talk about tiredness, making your everyday conversations even more engaging.
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I’m worn out
Meaning: use to express a deep level of tiredness, often implying both physical and mental fatigue
Examples:
I’m really looking forward to my holiday next because I’m completely worn out.
After completing three back-to-back client presentations, I’m completely worn out.
I’m exhausted
Meaning: you’re extremely tired, usually from a specific effort or activity; it’s often about feeling overwhelmed and without energy
Examples:
I’m exhausted from all the studying and exams today. I just want to relax and watch a movie tonight.
I’m exhausted after that two-hour spin class. I need to sit down and catch my breath!
How to Say You’re Tired in English
I’m drained
Meaning: an informal way to say you’re very tired, especially mentally or emotionally, from stress or intense effort
Examples:
I’m drained from that long discussion with my boss. It was really intense.
Oh, this heat! I’m totally drained—I can barely keep my eyes open. I think it’s time to find some shade and a cold drink.
I’m beat
Meaning: a casual way to say you’re very tired or exhausted, often due to physical activity or a long, busy day
Examples:
After moving all those boxes up the stairs, I’m beat. I can do no more today and need to rest.
After an hour of walking in the hot sun, I’m beat. Let’s go inside for some iced tea.
I am pooped
Meaning: very informal way that might be used after a long day of work, a strenuous activity, or simply when feeling rundown and in need of rest
Examples:
After a long day of painting walls and carrying boxes into the new house, I am pooped.
I’m pooped from cleaning the house all weekend. Now it’s time to relax.
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I’m shattered
Meaning: you’re too tired to function
Examples:
We’ve been working all day on this particular project, and I’m shattered. I’m going home.
I’m shattered after chasing the kids around the playground all day. I need a moment to myself.
I’m weary
Meaning: you feel very tired, both physically and mentally, usually after a long period of activity or stress
Examples:
I’m weary of all this work. It just keeps piling up and I really need a break.
I’m weary of driving to work every morning. The traffic is so heavy.
I’m burnt out
Meaning: physically and mentally you can do no more
Examples:
After working long hours for the past three weeks, I’m burnt out and need some time off to recharge.
I’ve been covering extra shifts every weekend for a year, and now I’m burnt out.
How to Say You’re Tired in English
I’m knackered 🇬🇧
Meaning: a very informal way to say that you’re extremely tired or exhausted
Examples:
Let’s call it a day, have a shower and go home. I’m completely knackered.
After jogging five miles in the park, I’m absolutely knackered and ready for a nap.
I’m whacked
Meaning: use it casually to express a strong feeling of fatigue; you’ve got no energy left
Examples:
I’m whacked from the long drive. I think I’ll skip dinner and go straight to sleep.
We danced all night at the wedding, and now I’m completely whacked.
I hope you enjoyed learning how to say you’re tired in English. It’s fun to try out new expressions, especially when they can precisely describe how you’re feeling. Next time you’re exhausted, remember, you’ve got lots of ways to share that with others, whether you’re ‘worn out,’ ‘drained,’ or even ‘pooped.’
Don’t forget to use these English phrases when you talk about your day or how you’re feeling.
Keep practising and join me again soon for more tips and tricks to help you with your English journey. Thanks for listening, thanks for watching.
speak better English with Harry podcast- episode 493
more information
For more information on English grammar rules, English collocations and English idioms, check out the links below:
English Expressions with Speak and Speech
10 Verbs Related to Time Management
You can always study English advanced level at Learning English with the BBC and British Council Learn English.