Chip away at

usgb
phrasal verb

To gradually reduce or erode something.

The team slowly chipped away at the lead their opponents had.
Visual representation of "chip away at" - To gradually reduce or erode something.

Often appears as...

  • chip away at the lead
  • chip away at debt

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "chip away at"
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Persistence Required

Using 'chip away at' implies a task requires continuous effort over time.

Illustration for Persistence Required
He chipped away at his debt by cutting down on unnecessary expenses.
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Subtle Progress

'Chip away at' suggests progress that may not be immediately noticeable.

Illustration for Subtle Progress
She chipped away at the team's skepticism with her consistent results.
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Negative Use

'Chip away at' can also be used when something is being negatively diminished.

Illustration for Negative Use
Years of neglect chipped away at the old building's grandeur.
Visual representation of the word "Chip away at"

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