Differences between tear up and well up
Tear up means to rip something into pieces, while well up means to fill with tears or emotion.
Meanings and Definitions: tear up vs well up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Well up
- 1Feel tears starting.
I felt tears WELLING UP when I heard the news.
- 2Feel an emotion strongly.
Anger WELLED UP inside us when we saw what they had done.
- 3Experience an emotion or feeling, start to cry.
Tears WELLED UP when I heard they had died.
Usage Examples: tear up, well up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
well up
Example
Tears well up in her eyes when she watches a sad movie.
Example
He wells up every time he hears the national anthem.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tear up
To tear or cut something into small pieces or strips.
Example
She shredded the old documents to protect her privacy.
To damage or ruin something beyond repair.
Example
The hurricane destroyed the entire town, leaving nothing but debris behind.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Well up
choke up
To become emotional and unable to speak due to sadness or strong feelings.
Example
She choked up when she heard the news of her friend's passing.
get emotional
To become overwhelmed with feelings of sadness, joy, or other intense emotions.
Example
He got emotional when he saw his daughter walk down the aisle on her wedding day.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “tear”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in tear up vs well up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: tear up or well up?
In daily conversation, people use well up more often than tear up. This is because well up is used to describe emotions and feelings, which are common topics in everyday conversations. Tear up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about physically tearing something apart. So, while both phrases are used, well up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of tear up and well up
Tear up and well 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 up and well up
The tone of tear up and well up can differ based on context. Tear up often carries a destructive or angry tone when related to ripping something apart, while well up typically has an emotional and sensitive tone, especially when referring to crying or feeling overwhelmed.
