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Gnaw at

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Emotional Impact

Describes a process that causes continuous distress or harm over time.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
The insult from earlier was still gnawing at him hours later.
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Persistent Effect

'Gnaw at' indicates a gradual, often unnoticed problem that worsens.

Illustration for Persistent Effect
Rumors about the company's bankruptcy gnawed at the employees' morale.
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Metaphoric Use

Metaphorically connects to the literal act of an animal chewing persistently.

Illustration for Metaphoric Use
His failure in the exam gnawed at him, like a rodent on wood.
Visual representation of the word "Gnaw at"

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