Phrasal verbs "take down" vs "tear down"

Differences between take down and tear down

Take down usually means to remove something from a higher position or to write something down, whereas tear down generally means to demolish or destroy something physically.

Meanings and Definitions: take down vs tear down

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Take down

  • 1Make notes or write down in full.

    The police TOOK DOWN his answers to their questions.

  • 2Remove.

    People TAKE DOWN their Christmas decorations twelve days after Christmas.

Tear down

  • 1Demolish.

    The estate was TORN DOWN so that they could develop the land into luxury flats.

Usage Examples: take down, tear down in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

take down

Example

Please take down the old calendar from the wall.

Example

She takes down the laundry from the clothesline.

tear down

Example

They plan to tear down the old factory.

Example

The construction company tears down old buildings to make way for new ones.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take down

To quickly write something down, usually a note or reminder.

Example

She quickly jotted down the phone number before she forgot it.

To take something off a wall or surface where it was being shown.

Example

After the party, they removed the decorations from display and put them away.

To write something down carefully, usually important information or details.

Example

He noted down the key points of the lecture to review later.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear down

To completely destroy a building or structure.

Example

The city council decided to demolish the old factory to make room for a new park.

To hit or strike something with force, usually to break it apart.

Example

He accidentally knocked down the vase and it shattered into pieces.

To take apart or disassemble something, usually a machine or equipment.

Example

The mechanic had to dismantle the engine to fix the problem.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “tear”

Phrasal Verbs with “down”

Differences in take down vs tear down: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: take down or tear down?

In daily conversation, people use take down more often than tear down. This is because take down is used for more daily tasks and routines such as taking notes or removing decorations. Tear down is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about demolishing or destroying something. So, while both phrases are used, take down is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of take down and tear down

Take down and tear down 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 take down and tear down

The tone of take down and tear down can differ based on context. Take down often carries a practical or organized tone when related to writing or removing objects, while tear down typically has a forceful and destructive tone, especially when referring to demolishing buildings or structures.

take down & tear down: Synonyms and Antonyms

Take down

Synonyms

Antonyms

Tear down

Synonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!