Hew away refers to the act of cutting or shaping wood or stone by striking and removing material from a larger object or block using a tool such as an axe, chisel, or other cutting instrument. This term is commonly used in the context of craftsmanship, construction, and various manual labor activities.
When one hews away, they typically target specific areas or regions of the material in order to create a desired shape, form, or structure. The process involves using repeated, precise blows or cuts to gradually remove excess material until the desired shape or size is achieved. The technique requires skill, precision, and strength to carefully chisel or chop away layers of the material, following predetermined measurements or guidelines.
Hewing away is often employed in woodworking and stonemasonry, where it is used to fashion items such as beams, planks, sculptures, or architectural elements. This traditional method of shaping and cutting materials is still commonly practiced today, particularly in handcrafted or bespoke projects.
The phrase "hew away" can also be used metaphorically, suggesting the act of cutting or eliminating something forcefully or decisively. In this sense, it implies the removal of obstacles, barriers, or unwanted elements, whether physical, conceptual, or metaphorical, in order to achieve a desired outcome or goal.
