Chip away
/tʃɪp əˈweɪ/B2
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1. To break off small pieces from a larger whole, usually over a period of time.
- The sculptor chipped away at the marble block until a beautiful figure emerged.
- He spent the afternoon chipping away splinters from the wooden board to achieve a smooth edge.
2. To gradually reduce or erode something, such as confidence or resources.
- The constant criticism chipped away at her confidence over time.
- They chipped away at the debt, making small payments each month.
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