"Chips away at" is a figurative expression that refers to a gradual and persistent process of eroding or reducing something, whether it be physical, psychological, or metaphorical. It implies the incremental removal of small pieces or parts, leading to a gradual decline, decay, or deterioration.
In a literal sense, "chips away at" can be used to describe the act of breaking or removing small pieces from an object, such as chipping away at a rock with a chisel. However, in its more commonly used figurative sense, it describes the culmination of repeated small actions or effects that gradually diminish or weaken a particular entity or situation.
For instance, in the context of personal relationships, "chips away at" implies the slow erosion of trust, affection, or intimacy due to persistent negative behaviors or circumstances. Similarly, in the context of achieving goals or success, it suggests the consistent effort and dedication required to overcome obstacles, bit by bit.
Overall, "chips away at" denotes a persistent, incremental, and often unnoticed process, in which small actions or factors gradually wear down or weaken something, making it a versatile and commonly used expression in a variety of contexts.
