has been worn down

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has been worn down" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has been gradually eroded, diminished, or exhausted over time, often referring to physical objects or emotional states. Example: "After years of use, the old shoes have been worn down to the point where they are no longer comfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

This vision has been worn down over time by a number of factors.

The New Yorker

The earth has been worn down, and isolated stones rise out of the ground in a rough north-south line.

The New York Times

This is not a woman who has been worn down by cares; she's a vigilant, fire-breathing watchdog of her husband's ego.

The New York Times

The lithe athleticism that carried Bryant through so many seasons has been worn down by injuries – a torn Achilles, a wrecked knee and an injured calf.

Independent

It has been worn down by more traffic than was anticipated when it opened in 1953, damaged by a past earthquake, and deemed vulnerable should another one hit.

The New York Times

But now the farmers realize that the vote was not for them, but against Mr. Mugabe, whose popularity has waned as the country's economy has been worn down by surging inflation and steep unemployment.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

All year, I've been worn down.

The New York Times - Sports

His fingernails had been worn down to cracked nubs.

The New Yorker

Perhaps they had been worn down by all that chasing.

The Guardian - Sport

They have been worn down, unable to endure endless uncertainty.

The Guardian

Though they have been worn down by decades of fighting, FARC rebels remain a potent force.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts such as confidence or morale, using "has been worn down" can effectively convey a sense of gradual depletion or weakening. For example, "The team's morale has been worn down by a series of defeats."

Common error

While suitable for general writing, overuse of "has been worn down" in strictly formal or scientific contexts might sound less precise. Consider stronger, more technical alternatives like "deteriorated" or "eroded" depending on the subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has been worn down" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that something or someone has been gradually weakened or diminished over time. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "has been worn down" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a gradual decline or weakening. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and is most frequently encountered in news and media contexts. While versatile, it's advisable to consider more precise alternatives like "has deteriorated" or "has diminished" in formal or scientific writing to enhance clarity. Be mindful of the overall tone and choose words that appropriately convey the intended nuance and precision to avoid misinterpretation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has deteriorated

Focuses on the process of becoming worse or lower in quality.

has diminished

Emphasizes a reduction in size, extent, or importance.

has eroded

Highlights the gradual destruction or diminution of something.

has weakened

Stresses the loss of strength or power.

has become depleted

Indicates a significant reduction in quantity or fullness.

has faded

Suggests a gradual loss of color, brightness, or strength.

has crumbled

Implies a breakdown or disintegration, often physically.

has declined

Focuses on a downward trend or decrease in quality or quantity.

has suffered damage

Highlights the harm or injury sustained over time.

has lost its edge

Suggests a decline in effectiveness or sharpness.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "has been worn down"?

It means that something has gradually deteriorated, weakened, or diminished over time due to prolonged use, pressure, or other factors.

What are some synonyms for "has been worn down"?

Alternatives include "has deteriorated", "has diminished", "has eroded", or "has weakened", depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "has been worn down"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and commonly used in English. The phrase follows standard grammar rules.

Can "has been worn down" be used to describe both physical objects and abstract concepts?

Yes, this phrase can describe the physical condition of objects like a worn path or the declining state of abstract concepts like confidence. It is crucial to use a descriptor that accurately portrays the condition like "has eroded".