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attrition

Noun

IPA /əˈtrɪʃn/

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Meaning in plain English

A gradual weakening caused by repeated attacks, pressure or difficulties.

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Pronunciation

attrition/əˈtrɪʃn/

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Both sides begin with strong resources
Repeated pressure continues over time
Their strength is gradually worn down

Attrition weakens someone through repeated pressure rather than one sudden blow.

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In the board game, a long battle of attrition slowly exhausted both players.
The debate became a war of attrition as each team repeatedly challenged the other's evidence.

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In the board game, a long battle of ________ slowly exhausted both players.

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attrition — A gradual weakening caused by repeated attacks, pressure or difficulties.

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A gradual weakening caused by repeated attacks, pressure or difficulties.

Compare: In the board game, a long battle of attrition slowly exhausted both players.

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Word origin

From Latin attritio, related to atterere, meaning to rub or wear down.

Did you know?

A war of attrition can describe a prolonged struggle outside literal warfare.

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