# chip away at

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/chip-away-at
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to gradually make something weaker, smaller, or less effective by taking away little pieces of it over time.

For teachers: to gradually reduce the size, value, or effectiveness of something through persistent, incremental actions.

## Examples

- They are trying to chip away at the total cost.
- The new competitor is slowly chipping away at our market share by offering lower prices.
- Years of constant criticism began to chip away at her confidence, eventually leading her to resign from the high-pressure position.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He chipped away the problem." but "He chipped away at the problem." — the preposition 'at' is necessary to show that the action is directed toward the object without completing it immediately.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by an abstract noun like power, confidence, debt, or a large task.
- Teaching tip: use the physical image of a sculptor using a chisel to help students visualize how small, repeated actions eventually change a large object.

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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.