# grind down

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/grind-down
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To weaken someone's morale over a long period.

## Examples

- The long hours at work really grind me down.
- Constant criticism from his boss began to grind him down until he finally decided to quit.
- The relentless pressure of the legal battle served only to grind down his spirit, leaving him exhausted and ready to accept any settlement.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.