What are the definitions of “tear at”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Pull or try to pull something to pieces.
The fighters TORE AT each other.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “tear at”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb tear at is to pull or try to pull something to pieces, often with force or aggression. This can refer to physical objects or even to emotions and relationships.
What are the different verb forms of “tear at”?
| Root Verb | tear at |
| Third Person Singular Present | tears at |
| Present Participle | tearing at |
| Simple Past | tore at |
| Past Participle | torn at |
Example
The dog tore at the toy until it was destroyed.
Example
She tears at the letter in frustration.
Example
The wind is tearing at the trees, causing branches to break.
Example
He tore at the wrapping paper to open his gift quickly.
Example
The fabric was torn at the seams after years of use.
What kind of phrasal verb is “tear at”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“tear at” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The cat tore at the curtains.
Example
Her guilt tore at her conscience.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“tear at” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The cat tore at the curtains.
Example
Her guilt tore at her conscience.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “tear at”?
Good things to know
Does “tear at” have an informal or formal tone?
Tear at is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or speeches.
