Wear-and-tear

Wear-and-tear refers to the gradual deterioration or damage that a product, property, or object experiences over time due to regular use, aging, or exposure to the elements. It's the natural consequence of using something, encompassing things like friction, erosion, fading, and breakdown of components. It's a ubiquitous phenomenon, affecting everything from clothing to cars, buildings to electronics. The degree of wear-and-tear depends on various factors, including the quality of the item, the frequency and intensity of use, and the environmental conditions it is exposed to.

Wear-and-tear meaning with examples

• After five years of daily use, the car showed significant wear-and-tear, with faded paint, worn tires, and some interior upholstery damage. The constant exposure to sunlight and fluctuating temperatures accelerated the process of deterioration. Regular maintenance could have mitigated some of the effects of wear-and-tear.
• The landlord assessed the apartment after the tenant moved out and found considerable wear-and-tear, including scuff marks on the walls, stained carpets, and a broken cabinet door. The security deposit was partially used to cover the costs of repairing the damage resulting from the wear-and-tear.
• The antique furniture, though beautiful, exhibited considerable wear-and-tear, reflecting its age and historical use. The wood showed scratches and discoloration, and the upholstery was frayed. The furniture was still valuable because of its history despite the wear-and-tear.
• The heavy use of the office equipment resulted in accelerated wear-and-tear. Copiers frequently jammed, and the computers needed frequent repairs due to the wear-and-tear on the internal components from hours of usage, but the machines were essential for business operations.
• The hiker's boots showed significant wear-and-tear after traversing the mountainous terrain. The soles were worn down, and the leather was cracked, reflecting the demanding conditions and the intense wear-and-tear. The owner chose to repair the shoes rather than buy a new pair.