The particle out adds the sense of drawing a limited amount as far as it can go.
The particle out adds the sense of drawing a limited amount as far as it can go.
What does eke out mean?
Eke out means to make a limited supply last or obtain something with difficulty.
When is eke out used?
It often appears with a living, profit, win, food or money.
How does eke out differ from stretch?
Stretch fits the supply sense, while eke out also covers hard-won results.
How is eke out used in a sentence?
She eked out a living by repairing shoes.
Is eke out formal?
No. Eke out can appear in ordinary speech and writing.