eating alive
/ˈiːtɪŋ əˈlaɪv/
VERB PHRASE
1. Defeating someone decisively
To defeat, outperform, or dominate someone overwhelmingly, often in a competition, contest, or confrontation.
1.1. Beating an opponent thoroughly
To win against an opponent by a large margin or demonstrate overwhelming superiority.
Synonyms
- annihilating
- beating
- besting
- clobbering
- crushing
- destroying
- drubbing
- overpowering
- overwhelming
- routing
- thrashing
- trouncing
- vanquishing
- walloping
- whipping
- wiping the floor with
Antonyms
- losing to
- being defeated by
- succumbing to
Examples
- The championship team was eating alive its opponents throughout the tournament.
- Our rival was eating us alive in the final minutes of the match.
Related Words
- dominating
- outclassing
- outperforming
- triumphing
- overwhelming
1.2. Overwhelming someone with pressure or criticism
To subject someone to such intense criticism, pressure, or hostile treatment that they feel unable to cope.
Synonyms
- overwhelming
- overpowering
- crushing
- tormenting
- hounding
- intimidating
Antonyms
- encouraging
- supporting
- reassuring
Examples
- The relentless media criticism was eating the actor alive.
- She felt as though the constant pressure at work was eating her alive.
Related Words
- scrutinizing
- pressuring
- harassing
- distressing
- criticizing