B2verb1K

Tear

UK /["/teə(r)/","/teəz/","/tɔː(r)/","/tɔːn/","/ˈteərɪŋ/"]/US /["/ter/","/terz/","/tɔːr/","/tɔːrn/","/ˈterɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to damage something by pulling it apart or into pieces or by cutting it on something sharp; to become damaged in this way

In simple words: To pull something apart or damage it by force.

Examples

She began to tear the paper into small pieces.
When he heard the sad news, he couldn't help but tear up.
The dog managed to tear the bag, spilling its contents everywhere.
The athlete felt a tear in his muscle during the game.
She felt a tear roll down her cheek as she watched the movie.

Usage notes

Use 'tear' for physical ripping or when describing emotional sadness (e.g., 'to tear up'). Avoid using in overly formal writing.

Grammar pattern

tear + object

Memory hint

Imagine a shirt being torn during a hectic game — 'tear' sounds like 'care' when it’s in distress.

Collocations

badly
easily
almost
threaten to
at
from
off
tear free
tear loose
tear something in half
badly
easily
almost
threaten to
at
from
off
tear free
tear loose
tear something in half

Synonyms

rip
rip
rip

Antonyms

mend
repair
fix

Common mistakes

'Tear' confused with 'tear' (opposite meaning) when pronounced differently.
Using the wrong form: 'teared' instead of 'tore'.
Confusing 'tear' with 'rip' in casual conversation.