eat away at

1. Destroy gradually, erode; also, worry one constantly. For example, The sea has been eating away at the outer banks for years, or The fact that he failed the test is eating away at him. [Early 1800s]

Example Sentences

“It’s a very similar thing and we’re both competitive in fun ways, not in ways that eat away at us,” she added.

From Los Angeles Times

A weaker dollar would also make Americans poorer — it would eat away at the value of our paychecks and make borrowing more expensive.

From Salon

She tells the BBC the unpleasant feeling afterwards can eat away at her for hours.

From BBC

And, of course, I think it’s wise not to allow fear, anger and resignation to eat away at your soul.

From Salon

The introduction of new shows in June mirrors the strategy cable once used to eat away at the share of the broadcast networks’ audience.

From Los Angeles Times