wear down
The phrase "wear down" is commonly used to describe the gradual reduction of strength, energy, or resistance, both physically and mentally, often through persistent effort or friction.
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Definition
B2General
(common)To cause someone to become tired or less determined through persistent effort or pressure.
Example
- His constant complaints finally wore me down.
- The marathon wore down even the most experienced runners.
B2Physical
(technical)To gradually reduce the size or strength of an object through friction or continuous use.
Example
- The gears will wear down if not properly lubricated.
- Over time, the wind and water wore down the rock into a smooth surface.
B2Persuasion
(common)To convince someone to do something by persistent effort or repeated requests.
Example
- She wore down her parents until they agreed to let her go to the party.
- The salesperson wore down the customer with constant follow-ups.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "wear down":
wear outweary outgrind downwear onworn outrun downwear offeat away atwearied outrun into the groundwater downweigh downwind downbeat downworse for wearuse upbreak downmake down