Differences between tear apart and tear up
Tear apart means to destroy or separate something into pieces, while tear up means to rip or shred something into smaller pieces or to become emotional and cry.
Meanings and Definitions: tear apart vs tear up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Tear apart
- 1Disturb or upset greatly.
People were TORN APART when news of the train crash came through.
Tear up
- 1Rip into pieces.
He TORE the fax UP and threw the bits of paper in the bin.
- 2Destroy.
They are TEARING UP the old part of town to build a new shopping centre.
- 3Have eyes fill with tears.
After hearing the tragic news he TEARED UP and could hardly speak.
Usage Examples: tear apart, tear up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
tear apart
Example
The news of the accident tore her apart.
Example
The tragic story tears apart everyone who hears it.
tear up
Example
She decided to tear up the old letters from her ex-boyfriend.
Example
He tears up the junk mail as soon as it arrives.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear apart
To completely destroy or ruin something.
Example
The hurricane demolished the small town, leaving nothing but debris and destruction behind.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear up
To tear or cut something into small pieces.
Example
She shredded the old documents to protect her privacy.
get emotional
To become sentimental or teary-eyed due to a touching or emotional moment.
Example
She got emotional when she saw her childhood home after many years.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “apart”
Differences in tear apart vs tear up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: tear apart or tear up?
In everyday conversation, tear up is more common than tear apart. This is because tear up can be used in various contexts such as tearing paper or feeling emotional, whereas tear apart is mainly used when talking about destroying something physically.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of tear apart and tear up
Tear apart and tear up 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 tear apart and tear up
The tone of tear apart and tear up can differ based on context. Tear apart often carries a negative or aggressive tone when related to destruction or criticism, while tear up typically has a softer and emotional tone, especially when referring to crying or sentimental moments.
