chip away
US /tʃɪp əˈweɪ/
UK /tʃɪp əˈweɪ/
短语动词
1.
一点点地削减, 逐渐削弱
to gradually reduce something, especially a problem or a large amount of something
示例:
•
We need to chip away at the debt until it's gone.
我们需要一点点地削减债务，直到它消失。
•
The constant criticism began to chip away at her confidence.
持续的批评开始一点点地削弱她的信心。
2.
凿掉, 侵蚀
to remove small pieces from something by cutting or breaking them off
示例:
•
The sculptor began to chip away at the block of marble.
雕塑家开始凿掉大理石块。
•
Over time, the waves will chip away at the cliff face.
随着时间的推移，海浪会侵蚀悬崖面。