Phrasal verbs "tear away" vs "tear out"

Differences between tear away and tear out

Tear away means to remove something quickly and forcefully, while tear out means to remove something by tearing it from its place.

Meanings and Definitions: tear away vs tear out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Tear away

  • 1Stop someone doing something unwillingly.

    I had to TEAR him AWAY from the office for dinner.

  • 2Remove a surface violently.

    The roof was TORN AWAY in the hurricane.

Tear out

  • 1Depart rapidly.

    The sheriff TORE OUT after the escaping criminals.

Usage Examples: tear away, tear out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

tear away

Example

She had to tear away her son from the video game.

Example

He tears away the old wallpaper from the wall.

tear out

Example

When the alarm went off, they tore out of the building.

Example

She tears out of the house when she realizes she's late for work.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear away

To remove something quickly and forcefully, often in a rough or violent manner.

Example

He ripped off his shirt in frustration after losing the game.

To take something away quickly and forcefully, often without warning or permission.

Example

The thief snatched away her purse and ran down the street.

To pull something off quickly and forcefully, often with a sudden jerk.

Example

She yanked off her boots and collapsed on the couch after a long day at work.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear out

To remove something by pulling it from its place, often with some effort.

Example

He had to pull out the nail with pliers since it was stuck in the wood.

To remove something carefully and skillfully, often with a tool or instrument.

Example

The dentist had to extract her wisdom teeth since they were causing her pain.

To remove something by pulling it out quickly and decisively, often with one's fingers.

Example

She plucked out a gray hair from her head and sighed at the thought of aging.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “tear”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in tear away vs tear out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: tear away or tear out?

In daily conversation, people use tear out more often than tear away. This is because tear out is used for more routine tasks such as removing a page from a notebook or tearing out a weed from the garden. Tear away is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about removing something forcefully. So, while both phrases are used, tear out is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of tear away and tear out

Tear away and tear out 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 away and tear out

The tone of tear away and tear out can differ based on context. Tear away often carries a sense of urgency or aggression when related to removing something forcefully, while tear out typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to removing objects or pages.

tear away & tear out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Tear away

Synonyms

Tear out

Synonyms

  • depart rapidly
  • leave quickly
  • rush out
  • hurry out
  • bolt out
  • dash out

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!