What are the definitions of “chip away at”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Gradually reduce something to make it less powerful, effective, etc.
They have been CHIPPING AWAY AT his reputation ever since he took office.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “chip away at”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb chip away at is to gradually reduce something, making it less powerful, effective, or significant. This can refer to a person's reputation, a task, or any other situation where something is being weakened or diminished over time.
What are the different verb forms of “chip away at”?
| Root Verb | chip away at |
| Third Person Singular Present | chips away at |
| Present Participle | chipping away at |
| Simple Past | chipped away at |
| Past Participle | chipped 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.
Example
They are chipping away at the old paint on the wall to prepare it for a new coat.
Example
The constant criticism chipped away at her confidence over time.
Example
The water had chipped away at the rocks, creating a beautiful canyon.
What kind of phrasal verb is “chip away at”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“chip away at” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The opposition party chipped away at the government's credibility.
Example
She chipped away at the ice on her windshield.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“chip away at” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The opposition party chipped away at the government's credibility.
Example
She chipped away at the ice on her windshield.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “chip away at”?
Chip away at someone's confidence
Gradually weaken someone's self-esteem or self-assurance.
Example
His constant criticism chipped away at her confidence, making her doubt her abilities.
Good things to know
Does “chip away at” have an informal or formal tone?
Chip away at is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as in a work or academic environment.
