eat on

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Definition
  1. Verb (phrasal verb):
    • To worry or cause anxiety in a persistent way: To gnaw at or trouble someone's mind continuously; to be a source of nagging concern or irritation.
Usage
  • This phrasal verb is used to describe a thought, problem, or feeling that persistently bothers or preys on someone's mind. It is often used in informal contexts, particularly in the question form "What's eating (on) you/him/her?" to ask what is causing someone's visible worry or bad mood.
  • It typically takes an object (a person). The preposition "on" is sometimes omitted, especially in the common question "What's eating you?"
Examples
  • Verb:
    • The constant criticism from his boss was eating on him, affecting his sleep.
    • She tried to seem happy, but the guilt over the mistake was eating on her.
    • "What's eating on you today? You've been quiet all morning."
Advanced Usage
  • "Eat away at": A very similar phrasal verb meaning to gradually consume, erode, or destroy something, either physically or emotionally. It can be used more broadly than "eat on."
    • The rust was eating away at the old car's body. (Physical)
    • Doubt began to eat away at her confidence. (Emotional, similar to "eat on")
Variants and Related Words
  • Eat (verb): The base verb, primarily meaning to consume food.
  • Eat away at (phrasal verb): To erode or consume gradually. (See Advanced Usage).
  • Nag (verb): To annoy or irritate with persistent demands or criticism.
  • Prey on one's mind (idiom): To be a source of constant worry.
Synonyms
  • Bother: To cause mild worry or annoyance.
  • Trouble: To cause distress or worry.
  • Prey on: To weigh heavily on the mind; to haunt.
  • Gnaw at: To cause persistent and wearing anxiety or distress.
Related Phrasal Verbs
  • Eat into: To use up a part of something, especially time or money.
    • The extra repairs will eat into our vacation budget.
  • Eat out: To have a meal at a restaurant.
    • Let's eat out tonight.
Related Idioms
  • "What's eating you?": A common, informal question meaning "What is bothering or worrying you?"
    • You seem upset. What's eating you?
Verb
  1. worry or cause anxiety in a persistent way
    • What's eating you?

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