B1verbmoneyenvironment
US/kənˈsuːm/
UK/kənˈsjuːm/
to eat or drink something, or to use fuel, energy or time
In context
Americans consume a huge amount of coffee every day.
Old air conditioners consume far more electricity than new models.
Preparing for the exam consumed most of my free time last month.
Words that go with consume
verb + noun
- consume energyData centers consume a lot of energy.
- consume alcoholAlcohol must not be consumed on the premises.
- consume caloriesRunning helps you consume more calories.
- consume resourcesCities consume vast resources.
verb + adverb
- consume too muchMany people consume too much sugar.
verb + preposition
- be consumed byShe was consumed by guilt after the accident.
- be consumed withHe was consumed with jealousy.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
consume a medicineCorrect: take a medicine