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Featured Word C1

attrition (noun)

Attrition refers to the gradual reduction of a workforce, a group of people, or the strength of something through sustained pressure or the natural process of not replacing those who leave. It describes a process of wearing down or weakening an opponent or a resource over a period of time.

💬 Example

"The gym saw a steady attrition of members who signed up in January but stopped coming by March."

💡 Memory Tip

Think of 'A-TRIT-ion' as 'A TRITon' (a sea god) rubbing stones together in the ocean until they are small. Or think: 'At...

🏛️ Origin

🔗 Synonyms
erosion depletion weakening abrasion reduction
⚠️ Common Mistakes

Using attrition to mean hiring more people. → Using attrition to mean people leaving.

Confusing attrition with contrition. → He showed great contrition (remorse).

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