eats, ate, eaten, eating

to eat into
phrasal verb

To gradually reduce or consume resources or time
  • 1The repairs eat into our savings.
  • 2His new hobby eats into his free time.
When something "eats into" resources or time, it means that it slowly uses them up or makes them smaller. For example, if a project is taking longer than expected, it is "eating into" our time. It's like something is slowly taking away what we have.
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Remember, "to eat into" is often used in situations where something is gradually using up resources or time without us realizing it. Keep an eye on your progress to avoid it sneaking up on you!
during a late shift at work
Balancing Resources During Overtime
John
We've been working overtime for weeks now.
Ashley
Yeah, it's starting to eat into our emergency supplies.
John
I noticed that too; we need to manage our resources better.
Ashley
Absolutely, or we'll run out before the next shipment arrives.
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Similar to "to eat into":
  • 1consume
  • 2deplete