"Eats into" is a phrasal verb that is commonly used in English to describe the gradual, often negative, effect of something on another thing, typically referring to the consumption or depletion of resources, time, or profits.
When something "eats into" or "eats away at" something else, it means it gradually reduces, erodes, or diminishes that particular thing over time. This phrasal verb implies a slow but continuous process that gradually wears down or reduces the quantity, quality, value, or effectiveness of the entity or resource being affected.
For example, in the context of finances, if expenses consistently exceed income, it can be said that the excessive spending "eats into" the savings or equity of an individual or a company. Similarly, if a disease perpetually weakens a person's immune system, it can be stated that the illness "eats away at" their overall health and well-being.
The phrase "eats into" can also be used more figuratively to describe the encroachment of time or attention. For instance, excessive time spent on an unproductive activity "eats into" or "eats away at" one's available time for more important endeavors.
Overall, the term "eats into" denotes a gradual and persistent effect, often resulting in depletion, reduction, erosion, or deterioration of a specific entity, whether it be physical resources, financial gains, or intangible aspects such as time or attention.
