Chip away at Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Persistence Required Using 'chip away at' implies a task requires continuous effort over time. He chipped away at his debt by cutting down on unnecessary expenses. Pro Tip 2/3Subtle Progress 'Chip away at' suggests progress that may not be immediately noticeable. She chipped away at the team's skepticism with her consistent results. Pro Tip 3/3Negative Use 'Chip away at' can also be used when something is being negatively diminished. Years of neglect chipped away at the old building's grandeur.