What are the definitions of “wear away”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Erode, remove gradually.
The lawn has been WORN AWAY by people walking across it and it's just bare soil now with hardly a blade of grass.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “wear away”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb wear away is to gradually erode or remove something due to friction, use, or exposure to elements. It can refer to the slow disappearance of a material, surface, or object over time.
What are the different verb forms of “wear away”?
| Root Verb | wear away |
| Third Person Singular Present | wears away |
| Present Participle | wearing away |
| Simple Past | wore away |
| Past Participle | worn away |
Example
The constant rubbing of the shoes against the floor will eventually wear away the carpet.
Example
The river wears away the rocks over time, creating a smooth surface.
Example
The paint on the walls is wearing away due to the sun's exposure.
Example
Over the years, the rain wore away the soil, exposing the roots of the tree.
Example
The inscription on the tombstone has been worn away by the wind and rain.
What kind of phrasal verb is “wear away”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“wear away” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The paint on the walls wears away over time.
Example
The constant use of the stairs wore away the carpet.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“wear away” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The paint on the walls wears away over time.
Example
The constant use of the stairs wore away the carpet.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “wear away”?
Wear away at something
Gradually weaken or damage something, often emotionally or mentally.
Example
The constant stress of her job was wearing away at her health and well-being.
Wear away one's patience
Gradually cause someone to lose patience or become irritated.
Example
His constant complaining wore away my patience, and I finally snapped at him.
Good things to know
Does “wear away” have an informal or formal tone?
Wear away is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or presentations.
