What are the definitions of “tear out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Depart rapidly.
The sheriff TORE OUT after the escaping criminals.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “tear out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb tear out is to depart rapidly or leave quickly. It is often used when someone is in a hurry or needs to leave a place immediately.
What are the different verb forms of “tear out”?
| Root Verb | tear out |
| Third Person Singular Present | tears out |
| Present Participle | tearing out |
| Simple Past | tore out |
| Past Participle | torn out |
Example
When the alarm went off, they tore out of the building.
Example
She tears out of the house when she realizes she's late for work.
Example
He is tearing out of the parking lot to catch the thief.
Example
Yesterday, the dog tore out of the yard when it saw a squirrel.
Example
The car had torn out of the driveway before anyone could stop it.
What kind of phrasal verb is “tear out”?
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.)
Intransitive verb
“tear out” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The cat tore out when it heard the loud noise.
Example
He tore out of the room when he received an urgent call.
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 out” 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 out when it heard the loud noise.
Example
He tore out of the room when he received an urgent call.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “tear out”?
Good things to know
Does “tear out” have an informal or formal tone?
Tear out is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in everyday conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms like 'depart rapidly' or 'leave quickly'.
