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Whittle away Meaning in English

expression

WHIT-uhl uh-WAY or WIT-uhl uh-WAY
WIT-uhl uh-WAY

Definição

To gradually reduce or remove something, often over a period of time.

Uso & Nuances

Usually used for resources, confidence, or power being slowly reduced. Common with "whittle away at" (e.g., "whittle away at savings"). More metaphorical than literal; informal to neutral in tone. Not used for sudden or complete reductions.

Frases de Exemplo

If you keep spending, you will whittle away your savings.

basic

Years of erosion have whittled away the coastline.

basic

Time can whittle away even the strongest memories.

basic

The company's profits were whittled away by unexpected expenses last year.

natural

They managed to whittle away at the problem until there was almost nothing left to fix.

natural

Her confidence was slowly whittled away by constant criticism.

natural