Differences between tear down and tear up
Tear down means to destroy or demolish a physical structure, while tear up means to rip or shred something into pieces.
Meanings and Definitions: tear down vs tear up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Tear down
- 1Demolish.
The estate was TORN DOWN so that they could develop the land into luxury flats.
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 down, tear up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
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 down
To destroy or knock down a building or structure.
Example
The city council decided to demolish the old factory to make way for a new park.
To completely destroy or level a building or structure.
Example
The hurricane razed the small town, leaving nothing but rubble behind.
To take apart or disassemble a structure or object.
Example
The workers had to dismantle the old machine before they could repair it.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear up
To cut or tear something into small pieces.
Example
He had to shred all the old documents to protect sensitive information.
cut up
To slice or chop something into smaller pieces.
Example
She had to cut up the vegetables before she could add them to the soup.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “tear”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in tear down vs tear up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: tear down or tear up?
In daily conversation, people use tear up more often than tear down. This is because tear up can be used in a variety of contexts such as tearing up paper, tearing up a piece of clothing, or even tearing up emotionally. Tear down is less common and is mainly used when referring to the destruction of buildings or structures.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of tear down and tear up
Tear down 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 down and tear up
The tone of tear down and tear up can differ based on context. Tear down often carries a negative or aggressive tone when referring to the destruction of something, while tear up can have a more neutral or emotional tone depending on the context.
