chip away at
- erodeDiminish through persistent friction
- whittleCarve by shaving layers
- wear downGradually reduce strength
- grindCrush into particles
- nibbleSmall, tentative bite
chisel · carve · undermine · diminish · persistent · gradual · relentless · hack · pick · scratch · crumble · weaken · gnaw · slow · steady · patience · determination · sculpt
gradual change direction
chip away atbuild up
Grow by increments
add to · strengthen · reinforce · bolster · accumulate
speed of action
chip away atdemolish
Destroy completely
destroy · obliterate · knock down · tear down · smash