Differences between scrape into and tear into

Scrape into means to barely achieve something, usually with difficulty or by a narrow margin. Tear into means to criticize or attack someone or something harshly and aggressively.

Meanings and Definitions: scrape into vs tear into

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Scrape into

1Be accepted somewhere, but only just.
She got mediocre grades and just SCRAPED INTO university.

Tear into

1Criticise strongly or angrily.
She TORE INTO me for losing it.

Usage Examples: scrape into, tear into in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

scrape into

Example

He scraped into the team with the minimum required score.

Example

She scrapes into the last spot on the team.

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 Scrape into

barely make it

To succeed in doing something, but only just, and with difficulty.

Example

He barely made it to the airport on time for his flight.

squeeze through

To pass through a narrow space or situation with difficulty.

Example

She squeezed through the crowd to get to the front of the stage.

narrowly escape

To avoid danger or failure by a very small margin.

Example

He narrowly escaped being hit by a car while crossing the street.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear into

rip apart

To criticize or attack someone or something harshly and relentlessly.

Example

The critic ripped apart the new movie, calling it a complete disaster.

lay into

To criticize or attack someone or something severely and angrily.

Example

The boss laid into the employee for making a mistake on the important project.

go after

To criticize or attack someone or something aggressively and relentlessly.

Example

The politician went after his opponent in the debate, accusing him of lying to the public.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “scrape”

Phrasal Verbs with “tear”

Phrasal Verbs with “into”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: scrape into or tear into?

In everyday conversation, tear into is more common than scrape into. Tear into is used when someone wants to express strong negative feelings towards someone or something. On the other hand, scrape into is not used as much in daily conversations. It's mainly used when we're talking about achieving something with difficulty.

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

Scrape 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 scrape into and tear into

The tone of scrape into and tear into can differ based on context. Scrape into often carries a relieved or surprised tone when related to achieving something with difficulty, while tear into typically has an angry or aggressive tone, especially when referring to criticizing or attacking someone or something.

scrape into & tear into: Synonyms and Antonyms

Scrape into

Synonyms

barely make it
just manage
squeak by
narrowly achieve
edge in

Antonyms

easily achieve
succeed comfortably
exceed expectations
surpass requirements

Tear into

Synonyms

Antonyms