What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tore
Example
I accidentally tore my shirt while trying to untangle it from the hanger. [tore: past tense]
Example
She tore the paper in half to make two smaller notes. [tore: verb]
ripped
Example
The dog ripped the cushion with its claws. [ripped: past tense]
Example
He ripped the envelope open to see what was inside. [ripped: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ripped is more commonly used than tore in everyday language. Ripped is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while tore is less common and often used in more formal writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tore and ripped?
Tore is generally considered more formal than ripped. Therefore, tore is more appropriate for formal writing, while ripped is more suitable for informal contexts.
