What are the definitions of “wear on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To pass or progress slowly or tediously.
My headache grew worse as the evening wore on.
- 2To irritate or annoy someone over time.
Your constant complaining is really wearing on me.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “wear on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb wear on is to pass or progress slowly or tediously. It is often used to describe time or events that seem to be moving slowly or becoming more difficult as they continue.
What are the different verb forms of “wear on”?
| Root Verb | wear on |
| Third Person Singular Present | wears on |
| Present Participle | wearing on |
| Simple Past | wore on |
| Past Participle | worn on |
Example
The meeting seemed to wear on forever.
Example
As the day wears on, I become more and more tired.
Example
The long journey was wearing on everyone's patience.
Example
As the night wore on, the party became less lively.
Example
The hours had worn on before we finally reached our destination.
What kind of phrasal verb is “wear on”?
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 on” 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 day wore on without any exciting events.
Example
As the lecture wore on, the students became restless.
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 on” 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 day wore on without any exciting events.
Example
As the lecture wore on, the students became restless.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “wear on”?
Good things to know
Does “wear on” have an informal or formal tone?
Wear on 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 speech.
