Differences between chip away and explain away
Chip away means to gradually make progress or reduce something by working persistently, while explain away means to justify or dismiss something negative or problematic by providing excuses or explanations.
Meanings and Definitions: chip away vs explain away
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.
Explain away
- 1To provide an explanation or excuse for something, often in order to minimize its significance or avoid blame.
And when the courageous stands you do take are explained away as the result of parental pressure, there's scant incentive to remain upright.
- 2To provide excuses or justifications for something.
He's been explaining away antisemitism for far too long.
- 3To provide an explanation or excuse for something, often in a way that is not entirely truthful or convincing.
She made up stories to explain away the missing money.
Usage Examples: chip away, explain away 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.
explain away
Example
He tried to explain away his mistake.
Example
She explains away her tardiness by blaming traffic.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Chip away
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Explain away
To justify or explain something negative or problematic by providing logical reasons or excuses.
Example
He tried to rationalize his behavior by saying that he was under a lot of stress.
make excuses
To provide reasons or justifications for one's actions or behavior, often to avoid responsibility or blame.
Example
She always makes excuses for being late, but it's starting to affect her job performance.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “chip”
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
Differences in chip away vs explain away: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: chip away or explain away?
In daily conversation, people use explain away more often than chip away. This is because explain away is used in various situations where we need to justify or rationalize something. Chip away is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about making progress or reducing something gradually. So, while both phrases are used, explain away is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of chip away and explain away
Chip away and explain away are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of chip away and explain away
The tone of chip away and explain away can differ based on context. Chip away often carries a positive and determined tone when related to making progress or achieving a goal, while explain away typically has a defensive or apologetic tone, especially when referring to justifying or dismissing negative actions or events.
