wear down

USAGE SUMMARY

"wear down" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used as a verb to express the idea of something being worn away or used up over time due to prolonged use or natural processes. For example: "The years of constant use had worn down the old house's hinges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We wear down until we can't wear down anymore.

The New Yorker

Mom will wear down eventually.

The New York Times

But we didn't wear down.

The New York Times - Sports

(Beethoven can wear down singers by himself).

The New York Times - Arts

Their hands wear down to stumps.

The Guardian

The fact that their soles wear down so fast?

The New Yorker

Second, it will wear down the rule of prison officers.

Independent

Perhaps the new reports will wear down Dutch resistance.

The Economist

He did not wear down in the second half, either.

The New York Times - Sports

They look slightly vintage as they wear down".

The New York Times

Time was beginning to wear down Specialist Castillo.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a prolonged and gradual reduction in effectiveness or strength, "wear down" is an effective choice. However, be mindful of the context and consider synonyms like "erode" or "undermine" for nuances.

Common error

Avoid using "wear down" to describe actions with immediate or abrupt results. The phrase implies a gradual process; use verbs like "break" or "damage" for sudden impacts.

Linguistic Context

Wear down functions primarily as a phrasal verb. It describes a process where something gradually weakens or diminishes due to sustained pressure or use. Examples from Ludwig, such as "Mountains wear down from jagged peaks to flatness," illustrate this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "wear down" is a commonly used phrasal verb that describes a gradual reduction in strength, effectiveness, or resistance. According to Ludwig, it’s grammatically correct and applicable in various contexts, though primarily found in News & Media. When using "wear down", consider its emphasis on a gradual process, and avoid using it for abrupt or immediate actions. Alternative phrases such as "erode" or "weaken" can offer nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grind down

Similar to "wear down", but with emphasis on a harsh, unrelenting process.

weaken

This option is a direct synonym referring to a reduction in strength or effectiveness.

tire out

Focuses on the physical or mental exhaustion aspect of causing someone to "wear down".

exhaust

Implies complete depletion of energy or resources, similar to completely wearing someone down.

erode

This alternative directly relates to the gradual destruction of something by natural forces, similar to the decaying aspect of "wear down".

sap

Highlights the draining of energy or vitality, like "wear down" but often more gradual.

undermine

Emphasizes the gradual weakening or destabilizing effect, often in a more subtle or insidious manner.

diminish

Suggests a reduction in importance, quality, or power over time, similar to how something "wears down".

overcome resistance

Focuses on the action of defeating opposition through sustained effort, mirroring the perseverance needed to "wear down" a foe or obstacle.

break down

Signifies failure and decomposition, not gradual wearing.

FAQs

How can I use "wear down" in a sentence?

You can use "wear down" to describe a gradual reduction in strength or effectiveness, like "The constant pressure will eventually "wear down" their resistance".

What are some synonyms for "wear down"?

Depending on the context, you could use "erode", "weaken", "tire out", or "exhaust" as alternatives to "wear down".

Is it better to say "wear down" or "break down"?

"Wear down" implies a gradual weakening over time, while "break down" suggests a sudden failure. Choose the phrase that best reflects the process you are describing. For example, repeated stress can "wear down" a relationship while a single event can "break down" a negotiation.

What's the difference between "wearing down" and "grinding down"?

Both phrases imply a gradual reduction. "Grinding down" ("grinding down"), however, often suggests a more forceful or oppressive process than "wearing down".