Phrasal verb
eat away
Definition
phrasal verb. to slowly destroy or damage something over a long time. You use this when things like rust, acid, or even a bad feeling gradually make something weaker.
phrasal verb. to gradually erode, corrode, or consume a substance or surface. This phrasal verb is frequently followed by the preposition 'at' to identify the object being diminished.
Examples
“The rust is eating away the metal frame.”
“If you don't paint the wooden fence, the rain and sun will slowly eat away the wood over several years.”
“The high inflation rates began to eat away the value of the citizens' savings, leading to widespread economic anxiety.”
Examples
simple
“The rust is eating away the metal frame.”
contextual
“If you don't paint the wooden fence, the rain and sun will slowly eat away the wood over several years.”
complex
“The high inflation rates began to eat away the value of the citizens' savings, leading to widespread economic anxiety.”
Usage
often used with the preposition 'at' before the object, especially when describing feelings or abstract concepts.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'erode' for physical contexts; explain that 'at' is usually added when the process is ongoing or incomplete.
Pitfall
The acid ate away of the metal.
The acid ate away at the metal.
learners often incorrectly use 'of' instead of 'at' when specifying the object of the erosion.
Phrasal verb
Particles
away
Separability
optional
Pattern
eat (+ object) + away
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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