To "eat into" is a phrasal verb that can be used in different contexts, but in general, it refers to the gradual reduction or consumption of something valuable, typically by using it up or taking away from it over time. This action often results in a negative impact or a decrease in the quantity, quality, or value of the original item or resource that is being consumed.
This phrase is often used to describe the gradual erosion or reduction of savings, profits, or financial reserves due to expenses, losses, or unexpected events. For instance, in a business context, if expenditures, such as wages, operating costs, or debt repayments, consistently surpass earnings or revenue, they can eat into the company's profits or financial stability.
Moreover, "eat into" can also be used to refer to the gradual exhaustion or depletion of time or resources that are necessary for a particular activity or objective. For instance, excessive interruptions during work can eat into the available time for completing tasks and hinder productivity. Similarly, relentless demands or commitments can eat into an individual's personal time, causing stress or a reduced ability to relax and unwind.
Overall, "eat into" conveys the notion of something being slowly consumed, diminished, or deteriorated in a negative manner over a continuous period, as external factors affect the original quantity, quality, or value.
