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Grammar fix

wear off

fade gradually (effect, feeling, or impact)

If something such as a feeling, effect, or impact wears off, it gradually disappears or becomes less strong over time.

phrasal verbC1occasional

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • The pain from my headache finally wore off after a few hours.health
  • I think the initial enthusiasm for online learning can wear off if students don't feel engaged or supported.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: wear off (no object)

WrongThe effect wore off down.

RightThe effect wore off.

'Wear off' already means fade — don't add 'down'.

Patternwear off (no object)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff The effects of the medication gradually dissipated.

Natural The painkillers wore off after a few hours.

'Wear off' is the natural verb for an effect fading; 'dissipated' is formal.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • wear off + effect
    the painkillersthe noveltythe shockafter a while

Don't confuse it

At B1/B2, learners may know 'wear out' (for objects becoming unusable). 'Wear off' is different: it refers to something non-physical (like a feeling or effect) fading away.

Try it in Daily Speak →