outwear

/aut'weə/
Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition
  1. Transitive Verb:
    • To last longer than something else; to be more durable: To endure or remain usable for a greater period of time when compared to another item.
    • To wear out completely; to exhaust through use or strain: To cause something to become worn, used up, or depleted; to tire someone out completely.
Examples of Usage
  • Verb (Last longer):

    • These high-quality boots are designed to outwear any cheaper pair.
    • The new synthetic fabric is engineered to outwear traditional cotton.
  • Verb (Exhaust or wear out):

    • The constant friction will eventually outwear the surface of the machine part.
    • The relentless schedule threatened to outwear even the most dedicated volunteers.
Advanced Usage
  • In a competitive or comparative context: Often used to state superiority in durability.
    • Our product is guaranteed to outwear the competition.
  • In a figurative sense for endurance: Can describe surpassing in a non-physical contest, like patience or an argument.
    • Her optimism seemed to outwear all the setbacks.
Variants and Related Words
  • Outwore: Simple past tense.
    • The champion outwore all challengers in the grueling tournament.
  • Outworn: Past participle. Also used as an adjective meaning "no longer usable or fashionable."
    • He had outworn his welcome. (Adjective use, meaning he stayed too long and was no longer welcome.)
    • The tires were completely outworn. (Adjective use, meaning worn out.)
Synonyms
  • Outlast: To last longer than.
  • Survive: To remain functional or in existence longer.
  • Wear out: To make or become unusable through use.
  • Exhaust: To drain of strength or energy.
Phrasal Verbs

(This word does not commonly form distinct phrasal verbs. Its meanings are contained within the single verb form.)

Related Idioms
  • To outwear one's usefulness: To remain in a role or position longer than one is effectively contributing.
    • The old policy had long outworn its usefulness and needed replacement.
  • Outworn ideas: Ideas that are no longer relevant or acceptable.
    • The conference aimed to challenge outworn ideas in the field.
Verb
  1. exhaust or get tired through overuse or great strain or stress
    • We wore ourselves out on this hike
  2. last longer than others
    • This material outwears all others