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Gene93 Posted 11 years ago
Vocabulary
Use of "to wear off"
Hello, dear native speakers,
In what contexts do you use "to wear off"? Most dictionaries say it can be used if a feeling/pain/emotion disappear. Yes, but not quite true. I was told that "Love" can't wear off. Can pain/enthusiasm/feelings wear off? What do you suggest?
In what contexts do you use "to wear off"? Most dictionaries say it can be used if a feeling/pain/emotion disappear. Yes, but not quite true. I was told that "Love" can't wear off. Can pain/enthusiasm/feelings wear off? What do you suggest?
Top answer
Hello, Can physical pain, fear,feelings such as (love, hate) fade away?
- Hello, Can physical pain, fear,feelings such as (love, hate) fade away?
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8 Answers
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Hello,
Can physical pain, fear,feelings such as (love, hate) fade away?
Can physical pain, fear,feelings such as (love, hate) fade away?
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In the US today, the phrase "wear off," in a figurative sense, is used almost exclusively in the phrase "the novelty wears off," as in:
After you've had it for a while the novelty wears off.
Literally, it is used for coatings, etc.:
When exposed to the weather the protective coating will wear off.
It is normally not used for pain, love, etc.
After you've had it for a while the novelty wears off.
Literally, it is used for coatings, etc.:
When exposed to the weather the protective coating will wear off.
It is normally not used for pain, love, etc.
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The following is correct:
After four hours the effect of the drug will wear off.
"Wear away" is typically used in geological contexts - that is, for very long time periods - for example:
These marks show where the outer layer of rock has worn away.
After four hours the effect of the drug will wear off.
"Wear away" is typically used in geological contexts - that is, for very long time periods - for example:
These marks show where the outer layer of rock has worn away.
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"Fade away" is typically used for memories and sound, for example:
After 20 yrs. my memories of the incident had faded away.
I thought I heard the sound of violins playing, but it faded away as I continued down the passageway.
After 20 yrs. my memories of the incident had faded away.
I thought I heard the sound of violins playing, but it faded away as I continued down the passageway.
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Basically, pain, drug effects, don't fade away, they wear off. Probably because they are temporary.
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