Differences between wear away and wear off
Wear away means to gradually erode or disappear over time, while wear off means to diminish or fade away gradually.
Meanings and Definitions: wear away vs wear off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Wear away
- 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.
Wear off
- 1Stop having an effect.
The anaesthetic WORE OFF and my tooth started hurting.
Usage Examples: wear away, wear off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
wear 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.
wear off
Example
The pain relief from the medicine will wear off in a few hours.
Example
The excitement of the new toy wears off quickly for children.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wear away
To gradually wear down or destroy something through natural processes.
Example
The constant exposure to wind and water had caused the rocks to erode over time.
To gradually disappear or disperse, especially in the case of a feeling or emotion.
Example
The tension in the room began to dissipate as people started to relax and chat.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wear off
To gradually decrease or become less intense, especially in the case of a physical sensation or emotion.
Example
The pain in her knee began to subside after she took some painkillers.
To gradually become smaller or less important, especially in the case of an effect or influence.
Example
The impact of the new policy began to diminish as people adjusted to the changes.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
- slacken off
- fight off
- screen off
- level off
- buzz off!
Differences in wear away vs wear off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: wear away or wear off?
Both wear away and wear off are commonly used in daily conversation. However, wear off is more frequently used than wear away. This is because wear off is used in a broader range of contexts, including physical sensations, emotions, and effects of drugs or medication.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of wear away and wear off
Both wear away and wear off are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of wear away and wear off
The tone of wear away and wear off can differ based on context. Wear away often carries a sense of natural erosion or decay, while wear off can imply a more active process of fading or diminishing.
