godan verb (-gu), transitive verb
Physical action of cutting away a thin layer or edge, often to shape or sharpen something like wood or a pencil.
鉛筆の先をナイフで削ぐ。
I shave the tip of the pencil with a knife.
枝の先を少し削いでから
Shave the end of the branch a little before inserting it.
godan verb (-gu), transitive verb
Metaphorical use: to reduce or weaken something abstract like enthusiasm, interest, or mood. Usually written in kana.
彼の一言でやる気をそがれた。
His one remark dampened my motivation.
雨でせっかくの遠足の楽しみがそがれた。
The rain spoiled the fun of the long-awaited excursion.