Differences between tear into and tear up
Tear into means to criticize or attack someone or something harshly, while tear up means to rip or shred something into pieces.
Meanings and Definitions: tear into vs tear up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Tear into
- 1Criticise strongly or angrily.
She TORE INTO me for losing it.
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 into, tear up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
tear into
Example
She tore into him for being late to the meeting.
Example
He tears into his employees when they make mistakes.
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 into
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear up
To tear or cut something into small pieces.
Example
She shredded the old documents before throwing them away to protect her personal information.
cut up
To divide or chop something into smaller pieces.
Example
He cut up the vegetables for the salad and arranged them nicely on the plate.
To tear something forcefully or violently.
Example
The dog ripped the toy apart in seconds, leaving a mess on the floor.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “into”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in tear into vs tear up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: tear into or tear up?
In daily conversation, people use tear up more often than tear into. This is because tear up is used for more common tasks such as tearing paper or fabric. Tear into is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about criticizing someone or something. So, while both phrases are used, tear up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of tear into and tear up
Tear into 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 into and tear up
The tone of tear into and tear up can differ based on context. Tear into often carries an aggressive or angry tone when related to criticism or attack, while tear up typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to ripping paper or fabric.
