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
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 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 “take”
Phrasal Verbs with “tear”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
- hold down
- close down
- bucket down
- kip down
- blow 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.