carve (redirected from carving up)

be carved/set in stone

if an arrangement, a plan, or a rule is set in stone, it is completely fixed so that it cannot be changed. The rules aren't set in stone; they can be altered to suit changing circumstances. (usually negative) These are just a few ideas to be discussed - nothing is carved in stone.

See also: set, stone

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carve out something

1. to create a reputation, rank, or job through skillful activities. She carved out a reputation for herself as a high-powered lawyer.

2. to get a part of something. Those companies carved out a sizable share of the imported pasta market.

carve up something

to divide something into parts. The new owner carved up the company and sold off several divisions. Local leaders have carved up the forest and turned the land over to a company that built homes on it.