ENGLISH
REFERENCE

chip up

idiom
Meaning

To cause something to have chips, cracks or dents.


Examples
SIMPLE

Be careful not to chip up the new plates.

CONTEXTUAL

The movers were careless and managed to chip up the edges of my antique table.

COMPLEX

By dragging the heavy metal trunk across the hardwood floor, he managed to chip up the finish in several places.

Anchors to
Related idioms5entries
  1. 01

    chip away

    To reduce or weaken bit by bit; often used with at.

  2. 02

    chip in

    To make a contribution; help in a small way; especially, to pay for a part of something.

  3. 03

    chip off the old block

    Someone who takes after one of their parents; (generally) a person similar to another.

  4. 04

    chip on one's shoulder

    A habitually combative attitude, usually because of a harbored grievance, a sense of inferiority, or a desire to prove something.

  5. 05

    chip shot

    Something that is easy to do or to achieve.

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