Phrasal verbs "wear out" vs "work out"

Differences between wear out and work out

Wear out means to become exhausted or unusable due to overuse or age, while work out means to exercise or solve a problem through effort and practice.

Meanings and Definitions: wear out vs work out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Wear out

  • 1Use something until it stops working.

    She played the video so many times that she WORE the tape OUT.

Work out

  • 1End nicely.

    Things were going wrong for them but fortunately it all WORKED OUT in the end.

  • 2Find the answer or solution.

    I couldn't WORK OUT all the answers to the crossword puzzle.

Usage Examples: wear out, work out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

wear out

Example

If you keep using that old backpack, you'll wear it out soon.

Example

He wears out his shoes quickly because he walks so much.

work out

Example

Can you work out this math problem for me?

Example

She works out the solution to the puzzle quickly.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wear out

To become exhausted or depleted due to overuse or neglect.

Example

The car's battery ran down after being left unused for several weeks.

use up

To consume or exhaust all of something's resources or energy.

Example

She used up all her savings to pay for her college tuition.

To stop working or functioning correctly due to damage or wear and tear.

Example

The washing machine broke down after years of use and needed to be replaced.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Work out

To solve or understand a problem or situation through analysis or deduction.

Example

He couldn't figure out how to fix the computer until he read the manual.

To resolve or organize a problem or situation through effort and planning.

Example

They need to sort out their financial issues before they can start a business together.

To resolve or smooth out difficulties or disagreements through discussion and negotiation.

Example

The team had to iron out some differences before presenting their project proposal to the client.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “wear”

Phrasal Verbs with “work”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in wear out vs work out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: wear out or work out?

Both wear out and work out are commonly used in daily conversation. However, work out is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as fitness, relationships, and work-related situations. On the other hand, wear out is mainly used when referring to physical objects or people becoming exhausted.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of wear out and work out

Work out is a more formal phrase than wear out. It's suitable for both casual and formal conversations, including academic and business contexts. Wear out, on the other hand, is an informal phrase that is more appropriate for casual conversations with friends and family.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of wear out and work out

The tone of wear out and work out can differ based on context. Wear out often carries a negative connotation, implying that something has become old or unusable. In contrast, work out typically has a positive connotation, suggesting that someone is making progress or solving a problem.

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