Cut away at Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To gradually remove or reduce something by cutting it over time; can refer to both literal cutting or slowly weakening something (like resources or strength).
Usage & Nuances
Mainly informal or neutral. Often used for physical actions (wood, material) and for resources or metaphorical weakening ('cut away at our profits'). Don't confuse with 'cut out' (remove completely at once).
Example Sentences
He started to cut away at the tree branch with his knife.
basic
The waves cut away at the soil by the river every year.
basic
They had to cut away at the old paint before repainting the wall.
basic
All these small expenses are really cutting away at our savings.
natural
Constant criticism can cut away at a person's confidence over time.
natural
If you cut away at the problem a little bit each day, you’ll solve it in the end.
natural