Synonyms for

Tear

Verb / ter / / tɪr / Another word for tear — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to pull or rip something apart forcefully; a drop of liquid that comes out of your eye when you cry

Synonyms & similar words

rupture bout shootdown bust pull binge rent pluck buck shoot split rip snap teardrop deplumate snag deplume displume charge rip shred separate divide split burst sever detach part fracture break crack sob cry weep lacrimation droplet teardrop tearlet

Synonyms by register

Formal

rip rend sever

Informal

rip off tear apart wreck

Literary

shred shatter rend asunder

Antonyms

join mend repair attach unite assemble fix

Common collocations

  • tear up
  • tear down
  • tear out
  • tear into
  • tear away
  • tear off
  • tear a hole

Word family

noun tear
verb tear

Usage note

The verb 'tear' (pronounced like 'tare') means to rip or pull apart. The noun 'tear' (pronounced like 'deer') refers to a drop of liquid from the eye, or a rip in fabric.

Example sentences

  1. I will tear this paper into small pieces.
  2. The strong wind tore the roof off of the house.
  3. She couldn't help but tear up when she heard the news.
  4. A tear rolled down his cheek as he watched the sad movie.
  5. The little girl cried a tear when she fell off her bike.

Quotes

  • Tears are words that need to be written. - Paulo Coelho
  • The soul would have no rainbow if the eyes had no tears. - John Vance Cheney
  • Tears are the silent language of grief. - Voltaire

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