well-worn

IPA/ˌwel ˈwɔːn/
IPA/ˌwel ˈwɔːrn/

well-worn — adjective

1. Describes clothing, shoes, bags, or other objects that look old and used because

1.形容詞B1
釋義

Describes clothing, shoes, bags, or other objects that look old and used because they have been worn or handled many times over a long period.

例句

Sven wore his well-worn leather boots on every hiking trip for nearly a decade.

collocation: well-worn + boots / jacket / gloves

The charity shop gave bags of well-worn coats to families who needed warm winter clothing.

同義詞
  • worn

    shorter and more general; 'well-worn' emphasises that frequent use caused the condition

  • shabby

    more negative, suggests a rundown or poor condition from neglect rather than normal use

  • threadbare

    specifically about fabric that has become thin from extensive rubbing or wear

反義詞
  • brand-new

    never used before; opposite in every way

  • pristine

    in perfect, untouched condition

用法筆記

Often used with a neutral or slightly affectionate tone, describing items that have been used regularly, not neglected. To describe something in poor condition from neglect, use 'shabby' or 'ragged' instead.

常見錯誤

❌I bought a well-worn jacket from the thrift store.' (when you mean 'gently used')
✅I bought a gently used jacket from the thrift store.
💡'well-worn' means heavily and visibly used, not just second-hand.

2. Describes a word, phrase, joke, excuse, or idea whose frequent repetition has ma

2.形容詞B2
釋義

Describes a word, phrase, joke, excuse, or idea whose frequent repetition has made it sound uninteresting and uninspiring to listeners.

例句

Bao was tired of hearing the same well-worn excuses from colleagues who missed every deadline.

collocation: well-worn + excuse / phrase / argument

The CEO's speech was full of well-worn phrases about teamwork that no one found inspiring.

同義詞
  • clichéd

    more critical; emphasises that the expression is predictable and lacks creativity

  • hackneyed

    strongly negative; suggests the phrase has been used so much it is irritating

  • stale

    focuses on the loss of freshness and interest

反義詞
  • original

    new and interesting; the opposite of overused

  • fresh

    newly created and not yet overused

用法筆記

Carries a mildly negative or critical tone, implying the speaker wishes the person would say something original. Can describe both spoken and written language. Not used for physical objects with this sense.

常見錯誤

❌ 'This well-worn sofa is very comfortable.' (when talking about an old sofa) — This is actually correct in sense 1 (physical wear), but ambiguous. Be clear about whether you mean physical wear or overuse.