How to Pronounce "tear at"
expression
ˈtɛɹ/, /ˈtɪɹ/ /ˈæt
TAIR-at or TIR-at
tɪə/ /ˈæt
TEER-at
Definition
To pull or rip something forcefully or repeatedly, often with hands or claws. It can also describe a feeling or emotion that bothers or hurts someone deeply.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈtɛɹ/, /ˈtɪɹ/ /ˈæt
British English
tɪə/ /ˈæt
Simplified Pronunciation
US
TAIR-at or TIR-at
UK
TEER-at
Listen in Context
The cat tears at the pillow with its claws.
She began to tear at the wrapping paper.
The hungry dogs tore at the meat.
Grief would tear at her heart every time she passed his photo.