wear and tear — damage or deterioration resulting from ordinary use
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: damage or deterioration resulting from ordinary use
Pronunciation (IPA): /wer ənd ter/
Example Sentences
- The landlord can't charge tenants for normal wear and tear like faded paint.
- My smartphone shows serious wear and tear after being dropped 47 times this month.
- The company will replace equipment that shows excessive wear and tear.
wear and tear
NOUN[/wer ənd ter/]
damage or deterioration resulting from ordinary use
an elderly cobbler holds up a well-worn sneaker, pointing to holes in the sole and frayed laces. The shoe shows clear signs of extensive daily use with scuffed leather and worn treads. On the workbench beside him lie other damaged items - a backpack with torn straps and a jacket with faded fabric. A customer nods knowingly as the cobbler explains what needs repair. damage and deterioration resulting from ordinary use
Through wear and tear, he shows such care, teaching us how to bear!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase combines two English verbs, 'wear' (to deteriorate through use) and 'tear' (to rip or damage), forming a compound expression that has been in use since the 16th century. It describes the natural processes of degradation and damage that occur to objects through regular use and handling.
Breakdown
wear (to become worn or deteriorated) + tear (to become ripped or damaged). The phrase pairs two distinct deterioration processes: gradual wearing away through friction and abrasion, and sudden or progressive tearing of material.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The landlord can't charge tenants for normal wear and tear like faded paint.”
“My smartphone shows serious wear and tear after being dropped 47 times this month.”
“The company will replace equipment that shows excessive wear and tear.”
“My marriage contract should include a clause about emotional wear and tear.”
📚Related Words
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