death by a thousand cuts

Definitions

1. Lingchi, a form of execution.
   countable, uncountable
2. A gradual decline or failure as the result of many minor mishaps.
   countable, figuratively, uncountable

Examples

“The steelmaker warned that moving production overseas would be an inevitable consequence. One executive said: “This is death by a thousand cuts.””

“There are only months left to save⟳ our railway from a vicious downward spiral. Do we choose⟳ reform⟳ of the workforce or death by a thousand cuts? Who will stand⟳ up and speak⟳ for the industry to avoid⟳ such a massive own⟳ goal?”

CEFR level