Differences between eat away and explain away
Eat away means to gradually consume or erode something, while explain away means to justify or dismiss something by providing an explanation that may or may not be convincing.
Meanings and Definitions: eat away vs explain away
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Eat away
- 1Destroy slowly.
The disease EATS the liver 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: eat away, explain away in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
eat away
Example
The acid eats away the metal over time.
Example
Stress eats away at her health.
explain away
Example
He tried to explain away his mistake.
Example
She explains away her tardiness by blaming traffic.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Eat away
To gradually destroy or damage a material through chemical reactions.
Example
The acid rain has started to corrode the metal structures in the city.
To use up or deplete a resource gradually over time.
Example
The high cost of living was consuming all of his savings.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Explain away
To provide a reason or explanation that makes something seem acceptable or reasonable.
Example
He tried to justify his actions by saying that he was under a lot of pressure.
To provide a logical or plausible explanation for something that may not be entirely true or valid.
Example
She tried to rationalize her decision to quit her job by saying that she needed more time for herself.
To provide a reason or explanation that seeks to lessen the blame or responsibility for something.
Example
He tried to excuse his lateness by saying that there was heavy traffic on the way.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
Differences in eat away vs explain away: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: eat away or explain away?
In everyday conversation, explain away is more common than eat away. This is because explaining away is a common human tendency when we want to avoid taking responsibility for something or when we want to make excuses. Eat away is less common and is used mainly in specific contexts such as discussing the effects of acid on metal.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of eat away and explain away
Eat away and explain away are both informal phrases 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 eat away and explain away
The tone of eat away and explain away can differ based on context. Eat away often carries a negative or destructive tone, while explain away can have a defensive or evasive tone.
