Help center

Phrasal verbs "tear off" vs "tee off"

Differences between tear off and tee off

Tear off means to separate or remove something by pulling it with force, while tee off means to start a round of golf by hitting the ball from a tee.

Meanings and Definitions: tear off vs tee off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Tear off

  • 1Remove part of a form or letter using your hands, not scissors.

    She TORE the slip OFF the bottom of the form and sent it with her cheque.

  • 2Leave at high speed.

    The police TORE OFF in their car after arresting her.

  • 3Remove with force.

    The storm TORE the roof OFF.

Tee off

  • 1Start or launch an event.

    The new project will TEE OFF next month.

  • 2Place a golf ball on a short plastic or wooden stick before hitting it at the start of a hole..

    He TEED OFF at the first hole.

  • 3Annoy someone.

    It TEES me OFF when they turn up late.

Usage Examples: tear off, tee off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

tear off

Example

She tore off a piece of paper to write a note.

Example

He tears off a page from the calendar every day.

tee off

Example

He always tees off at the first hole.

Example

She tees off at the golf course every weekend.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear off

rip off

To forcefully tear or remove something from a larger object or surface.

Example

He ripped off a piece of tape from the roll and stuck it on the package.

peel off

To remove or separate a thin layer or covering from a surface or object.

Example

She peeled off the sticker from her laptop and threw it away.

cut out

To remove or detach something from a larger object or surface using scissors or a knife.

Example

He cut out a picture from the magazine and glued it onto his notebook.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tee off

start off

To begin or initiate an activity or event.

Example

We started off the meeting with a brief introduction of everyone present.

kick off

To begin or start a game, event, or activity.

Example

The concert will kick off at 7 pm sharp, so make sure to arrive early.

commence

To begin or start something formally or ceremoniously.

Example

The graduation ceremony will commence with the national anthem and a speech by the principal.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “tear”

Phrasal Verbs with “tee”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in tear off vs tee off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: tear off or tee off?

In daily conversation, people use tear off more often than tee off. This is because tear off is used for more daily tasks and routines such as tearing off a piece of paper or tearing off a coupon. Tee off is not used as much unless someone is talking about playing golf. So, while both phrases are used, tear off is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of tear off and tee off

Tear off and tee off 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 off and tee off

The tone of tear off and tee off can differ based on context. Tear off often carries a forceful or urgent tone when related to removing something quickly, while tee off typically has a relaxed and leisurely tone, especially when referring to playing golf.

tear off & tee off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Tear off

Synonyms

Antonyms

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!