tore

word · lemma: tear

/ˈtɔɹ/
tor
/tˈɔː/
taw

Definition

Past tense of 'tear'. It means to pull or damage something so that it splits, or to move very quickly in a direction in informal use.

Usage & Nuances

Usually used for physical damage: 'tore my shirt', 'tore the paper'. Common pattern: 'tear something in half'. Informal 'tore down the road' means moved very fast. Don't confuse it with the noun 'tear' meaning a drop from the eye.

Example Sentences

I tore the paper by mistake.

basic

She tore her dress on a nail.

basic

He tore the photo in half.

basic

The kids tore through the wrapping paper in seconds.

natural

He tore down the street without even looking back.

natural

I tore open the box as soon as it arrived.

natural