Differences between tear off and tell off
Tear off means to remove something by pulling it with force, while tell off means to scold or reprimand someone for their behavior.
Meanings and Definitions: tear off vs tell 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.
Tell off
- 1Chide; talk angrily to someone about something they've done wrong..
His fiancée TOLD him OFF for arriving nearly an hour late.
Usage Examples: tear off, tell 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.
tell off
Example
She tells off her children when they misbehave.
Example
He tells off his employees for not following the rules.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear off
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tell off
To criticize or reprimand someone for their behavior.
Example
The teacher scolded the student for not completing their homework.
rebuke
To express sharp disapproval or criticism towards someone's actions.
Example
The manager rebuked the employee for being late to work again.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “tear”
Phrasal Verbs with “tell”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Differences in tear off vs tell off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: tear off or tell off?
In daily conversation, people use tell off more often than tear off. This is because tell off is used when someone needs to be corrected or disciplined. Tear off is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about removing something forcefully. So, while both phrases are used, tell off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of tear off and tell off
Tear off and tell 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 tell off
The tone of tear off and tell off can differ based on context. Tear off often carries a forceful or urgent tone when related to removing something, while tell off typically has a stern or angry tone, especially when referring to correcting someone's behavior.
