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
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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
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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
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear out
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.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “tear”
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
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.