attrition Definition
- 1the process of gradually reducing the strength or effectiveness of someone or something through sustained attack or pressure
- 2a gradual reduction in the number of employees or participants in an organization or institution, achieved through a natural process such as retirement or resignation
Using attrition: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "attrition" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The company's attrition rate has been increasing due to low employee morale.
Example
The constant attrition of the coastline by the sea is a major concern for the town.
Example
The university has been experiencing a high level of attrition among its students.
attrition Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with attrition
a prolonged period of conflict during which each side seeks to gradually wear out the other by a series of small-scale actions
Example
The war of attrition between the two countries lasted for several years.
the process of losing employees over time, either through resignation, retirement, or termination
Example
The company's HR department is working on strategies to reduce employee attrition.
the loss of customers over time, either through dissatisfaction, competition, or other factors
Example
The telecom company is facing high levels of customer attrition due to poor service quality.
Origins of attrition
from Latin 'atritio', meaning 'rubbing against'
Summary: attrition in Brief
The term 'attrition' [uh-trish-uhn] refers to the gradual reduction in strength or effectiveness of someone or something through sustained attack or pressure. It can also refer to a natural reduction in the number of employees or participants in an organization or institution. Examples include 'The company's attrition rate has been increasing due to low employee morale.' and 'The constant attrition of the coastline by the sea is a major concern for the town.' Phrases like 'war of attrition' denote a prolonged period of conflict, while 'employee attrition' and 'customer attrition' refer to the loss of employees or customers over time.