eat away at
The phrase "eat away at" is a versatile phrasal verb that conveys the idea of gradual deterioration or persistent impact, whether physical or emotional.
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Definition
B2General
(common)To gradually damage or destroy something over time.
Example
- The constant rain has eaten away at the metal roof.
- The river is slowly eating away at the riverbank.
B2Emotional
(common)To cause persistent worry, guilt, or distress to someone.
Example
- Guilt about the accident ate away at him for years.
- Her unspoken fears were eating away at her peace of mind.
B2Financial
(common)To gradually reduce or consume resources, especially money or profits.
Example
- Unexpected expenses ate away at their savings.
- The high cost of living is eating away at their budget.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "eat away at":
tear atwear downtear awaychew offtake a bite out ofpeel awayburn awaywear outpick apart