The verb "peg away" means to persistently work on something in order to achieve a goal. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /pɛɡ əˈweɪ/. The first syllable is pronounced with the short e sound, similar to the word "pet". The g letter is pronounced with a hard g sound, followed by the schwa sound, which is a neutral vowel sound. The second syllable starts with the short e sound, followed by the long a sound, which is pronounced like the word "hey". The y at the end is pronounced as the long i sound.
To "peg away" means to persistently and diligently continue working on a task or project despite difficulties, challenges, or obstacles. This colloquial phrase implies determination, tenacity, and perseverance. When someone is pegging away, they are focused on their objective and are not easily discouraged or deterred.
This expression originates from the idea of "pegging," which refers to hammering wooden pegs into a surface to secure or fasten something firmly. When applied to human endeavors, pegging away emphasizes the act of steadily advancing or making progress. It implies steadily and consistently working towards a goal, despite setbacks or slow progress.
The phrase is often associated with tasks that require effort, concentration, or repetition, often leading to a gradual accomplishment. It conveys a sense of steadily chipping away at a task, gradually achieving small victories that accumulate over time.
"Peg away" is commonly used in informal conversations and typically connotes both persistence and patience. It emphasizes the belief that consistent effort and dedication will eventually lead to success, even if progress seems slow or obstacles arise. It encourages individuals to stay committed to their work and remain focused on their goals, even when faced with challenges or setbacks.
The etymology of the phrase "peg away" can be traced back to the late 17th century. The word "peg" in this context means to work steadily or perseveringly at something. It is derived from the sense of inserting a peg into a hole or slot, with the notion of making progress or advancing bit by bit. The term "peg away" then emerged as a colloquial expression to describe someone who continues to work diligently and persistently despite challenges or difficulties. It conveys the idea of consistent effort and determination towards achieving a goal.