Eat away Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To gradually destroy, remove, or reduce something, often by a physical or emotional process. It can refer to actual physical erosion or to something being weakened emotionally or financially.
Usage & Nuances
Commonly used in both literal (like rust 'eats away' at metal) and figurative senses (stress 'eats away at' confidence). Usually followed by 'at' when specifying what is being affected. Informal; often paired with words describing what's being damaged.
Example Sentences
Acid can eat away metal over time.
basic
Rainwater has eaten away parts of this wall.
basic
Worries can eat away your happiness if you let them.
basic
All those little expenses really eat away at my savings.
natural
The constant criticism started to eat away at his confidence.
natural
If you leave wood outside, termites will eat away at it.
natural