WEARING THIN Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "wearing thin" is an idiomatic expression that refers to a situation or relationship becoming strained or deteriorating due to excessive use, repetition, or prolonged exposure. It implies that something that was once durable or enjoyable is now becoming increasingly fragile or less satisfactory.
When something is described as "wearing thin," it suggests that its capacity to withstand pressure, criticism, or repetition is diminishing, resulting in a weakened state. This phrase is often applied to interpersonal relationships, indicating that the bond between individuals is becoming strained or frayed, and patience or tolerance is diminishing.
Furthermore, "wearing thin" can describe the diminishing effectiveness or interest in something due to excessive exposure or repetition. For example, if a joke is being told repeatedly, it may elicit enjoyment in the beginning, but as it becomes overused, it loses its humorous impact and the patience of the listeners may start to "wear thin." Additionally, when circumstances or situations are repeatedly encountered, they can become tiresome or frustrating, causing an individual's enthusiasm or interest to dwindle.
Overall, the term "wearing thin" implies a gradual erosion or breakdown of durability, enjoyment, and patience. It signifies a diminishing capacity to withstand or tolerate repeated strain or exposure, resulting in a weakened state or deteriorating conditions.
Common Misspellings for WEARING THIN
- qearing thin
- aearing thin
- searing thin
- eearing thin
- 3earing thin
- 2earing thin
- wwaring thin
- wsaring thin
- wdaring thin
- wraring thin
- w4aring thin
- w3aring thin
- wezring thin
- wesring thin
- wewring thin
- weqring thin
- weaeing thin
- weading thin
- weafing thin
Etymology of WEARING THIN
The phrase "wearing thin" originates from the Middle English period and has evolved from the literal sense of an object becoming thinner due to constant use. The word 'wear' comes from the Old English word 'werian,' which means "to use up". The concept of something becoming worn out or diminishing in quality or effectiveness has been metaphorically applied to emotions, patience, or tolerance. Therefore, when one says that their patience or tolerance is "wearing thin", they mean that it is becoming exhausted or nearing its limits, like a worn-out fabric becoming thin and fragile.
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