Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

eat-into

Phrasal Verb
/ˈiːt ˈɪntuː/
Definition
To gradually reduce or diminish something, especially resources, time, or savings, often in a way that is damaging or undesirable.
Examples
  • The rising costs of living are starting to eat into my savings.
  • If we don’t stick to our budget, our expenses will eat into our family vacation fund.
  • The long hours at work are beginning to eat into my leisure time.
Meaning
The phrase ‘eat into’ means to take away from or consume gradually, usually implying a negative impact, such as decreasing funds or time.
Synonyms
  • consume
  • deplete
  • use up
  • drain