Word: Whittle Away
Definition: "Whittle away" is a verb that means to gradually reduce something in size or amount by cutting small pieces off or by wearing it down over time.
Usage Instructions: You can use "whittle away" when talking about reducing physical objects, like wood, or even abstract things, like time, patience, or resources. It's often used in contexts where the reduction happens slowly and steadily.
Example: - The carpenter began to whittle away the block of wood to create a beautiful sculpture. - Over the years, the company's profits have whittled away due to increased competition.
Advanced Usage: In more advanced contexts, "whittle away" can also refer to the gradual loss of something intangible, such as confidence, support, or trust. For example: - Continuous criticism can whittle away a person's self-esteem.
Word Variants: - "Whittle" (verb): To cut small pieces from something, often wood. - "Whittling" (noun): The act of cutting or shaping something by removing small pieces.
Different Meanings:While "whittle away" primarily refers to reducing something, "whittle" alone can refer to the act of carving or shaping an object, especially out of wood.
Synonyms: - Reduce - Diminish - Decrease - Wear down - Chip away
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly match "whittle away," but phrases like "chip away at" can convey a similar meaning in certain contexts.
Summary: "Whittle away" means to reduce something gradually by cutting small pieces off or by diminishing it over time.