Chiseling: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is shaping or cutting materials, generally stone or wood, with a chisel. It's often related to detailed work.

• The artist spent hours chiseling the details of the statue.
• He was busy chiseling letters into the stone tablet.

Used when creating something by cutting away from a solid material like wood or stone. It's also common in the context of cooking, such as carving meat.

• They decided to carve their initials into the tree.
• The chef began to carve the turkey for dinner.

Used when shaping a three-dimensional artwork from materials like clay, stone, or metal. It emphasizes the artistic creation of forms.

• He loves to sculpt figures out of clay.
• The artist spent months sculpting the life-sized statue.

Used when cutting or etching designs or letters into a hard surface, usually for decorative or ownership marking purposes. It often involves finer, more intricate work.

• She had her name engraved on the bracelet.
• The trophy was engraved with the winner's name.

This word has a negative connotation; it’s often used to describe deceitfully obtaining money or advantages, or it can refer to the physical act of carving with a chisel.

• He was caught chiseling money from the company
• The sculptor spent hours chiseling the marble to create a beautiful statue

This is best used when talking about reaching a goal or completing a task, especially something that required effort and dedication.

• She worked hard to achieve her dream of becoming a doctor
• After months of training, he finally achieved his goal of running a marathon

This is generally used when talking about getting or acquiring something, usually an object or possession.

• You need to obtain permission before you can access the restricted area
• She obtained a rare book for her collection

Often used in formal situations to describe reaching a certain level, status, or condition after effort or hard work.

• He attained the rank of general after many years of service
• She has attained a level of mastery in playing the piano