What are the definitions of “gnaw at”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Trouble, worry or annoy someone.
I know it was wrong and guilt has GNAWED AT me ever since I did it.
- 2Harm gradually.
The government's dishonesty has GNAWED AT people's trust in politicians.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “gnaw at”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb gnaw at is to cause worry, trouble, or annoyance to someone. It is often used to describe a feeling of guilt, worry, or doubt that bothers someone over a period of time.
What are the different verb forms of “gnaw at”?
| Root Verb | gnaw at |
| Third Person Singular Present | gnaws at |
| Present Participle | gnawing at |
| Simple Past | gnawed at |
| Past Participle | gnawed at |
Example
The thought of failing the exam was gnawing at him.
Example
The guilt gnaws at her every day.
Example
The constant criticism is gnawing at his confidence.
Example
His harsh words gnawed at me for days.
Example
The regret has gnawed at him for years.
What kind of phrasal verb is “gnaw 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
“gnaw 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 guilt gnawed at her for days.
Example
His harsh words gnawed at me.
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
“gnaw 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 guilt gnawed at her for days.
Example
His harsh words gnawed at me.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “gnaw at”?
Good things to know
Does “gnaw at” have an informal or formal tone?
Gnaw at is a neutral phrasal verb. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, it is more commonly used in written English or in literary contexts. For example, in a novel, a character might say, 'The guilt gnawed at him day and night.'
