Differences between chip away and chip away at
Chip away means to gradually remove small pieces from something, while chip away at means to make slow and steady progress towards a goal or task.
Meanings and Definitions: chip away vs chip away at
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Chip away
- 1Gradually reduce or weaken.
Her comments were beginning to chip away at his self-confidence.
- 2Gradually make progress or reduce something.
She was chipping away at the ground with a trowel.
- 3Gradually reduce or diminish.
The company’s dominance of the market is gradually being chipped away.
Chip away at
- 1Gradually reduce something to make it less powerful, effective, etc.
They have been CHIPPING AWAY AT his reputation ever since he took office.
Usage Examples: chip away, chip away at in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
chip away
Example
She started to chip away at the ice on the windshield.
Example
He chips away at the stone to create a sculpture.
chip away at
Example
She is trying to chip away at her student loan debt by making extra payments.
Example
He chips away at the large project by completing small tasks every day.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Chip away
To wear away gradually by natural forces such as wind or water.
Example
The constant pounding of waves had eroded the rocky shore over time.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Chip away at
work towards
To make an effort to achieve a particular goal or objective.
Example
She was determined to work towards her dream of becoming a successful entrepreneur.
make strides
To make significant progress towards a goal or objective.
Example
Thanks to their hard work and dedication, the company was able to make strides in improving their customer service ratings.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “chip”
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
Phrasal Verbs with “away at”
Differences in chip away vs chip away at: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: chip away or chip away at?
Both chip away and chip away at are commonly used in everyday conversation, but chip away at is more frequently used because it's a phrasal verb that can be used in various contexts.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of chip away and chip away at
Both chip away and chip away at are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, chip away at can also be used in more formal settings such as business or academic contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of chip away and chip away at
The tone of chip away is often related to physical actions, such as chiseling or carving. On the other hand, chip away at has a more figurative meaning and is often used to describe making progress towards a goal or task.
