CEFR C1

chafe

verb

Meaning

Rubbing against a surface to cause soreness, irritation, or wear.

Examples

The tight collar of the shirt began to chafe his neck during the long ceremony.
Constant friction from the ropes will eventually chafe the wooden mast.

Synonyms: rub, abrade, fret

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chafe (C1)

verb

Pronunciation: /tʃeɪf/

Definition

Rubbing against a surface to cause soreness, irritation, or wear.

Examples

The tight collar of the shirt began to chafe his neck during the long ceremony.
Constant friction from the ropes will eventually chafe the wooden mast.
Sensitive skin can easily chafe when exposed to harsh chemicals or abrasive fabrics.

How to Use chafe

chafe at (phrasal verb): To feel annoyed or restricted by something. — "The students chafed at the new dress code."
chafe against (phrasal verb): To rub against something or struggle against a limitation. — "The rope continued to chafe against the sharp edge of the dock."

Synonyms of chafe

Words with a similar meaning to chafe:

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