Phrasal verbs "burst into" vs "tear into"

Differences between burst into and tear into

Burst into means to suddenly start doing something, usually an action that involves a strong emotion like laughing or crying. Tear into means to criticize or attack someone or something harshly and with great intensity.

Meanings and Definitions: burst into vs tear into

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Burst into

  • 1Catch fire very quickly.

    The car BURST INTO flames and the driver died as he didn't have time to get out.

  • 2Laugh, cry or clap loudly.

    She BURST INTO laughter when she heard the joke.

Tear into

  • 1Criticise strongly or angrily.

    She TORE INTO me for losing it.

Usage Examples: burst into, tear into in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

burst into

Example

The audience burst into applause after the performance.

Example

He bursts into tears when he hears the sad news.

tear into

Example

She tore into him for being late to the meeting.

Example

He tears into his employees when they make mistakes.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Burst into

To suddenly start doing something, usually an action that involves a physical activity or a crime.

Example

The kids broke into a dance when their favorite song came on the radio.

erupt into

To suddenly start doing something, usually an action that involves a strong emotion or a violent event.

Example

The argument erupted into a physical fight, and the police had to intervene.

To suddenly start laughing loudly and uncontrollably.

Example

The comedian's joke was so funny that the audience burst out laughing.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear into

To criticize or attack someone or something harshly and with great intensity.

Example

The boss laid into the employee for not meeting the deadline.

To criticize or attack someone or something severely and with great detail.

Example

The movie critic ripped apart the new blockbuster for its poor plot and acting.

To criticize or attack someone or something aggressively and relentlessly.

Example

The politician went after his opponent during the debate, accusing him of corruption and dishonesty.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “burst”

Phrasal Verbs with “tear”

Differences in burst into vs tear into: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: burst into or tear into?

In daily conversation, people use burst into more often than tear into. This is because burst into is used for more positive emotions like laughter or excitement, which are more common in everyday interactions. Tear into is not used as much, as it's a more intense and negative expression. It's mainly used when we're talking about criticizing someone or something. So, while both phrases are used, burst into is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of burst into and tear into

Burst into and tear into are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of burst into and tear into

The tone of burst into and tear into can differ based on context. Burst into often carries a joyful or surprised tone when related to positive emotions, while tear into typically has an aggressive and negative tone, especially when referring to criticism or attacking someone or something.

burst into & tear into: Synonyms and Antonyms

Burst into

Synonyms

  • commence
  • erupt
  • explode
  • break out
  • suddenly start

Antonyms

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