Word
tearing
Phoneticstear·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈtɛɹɪŋ/
UK/tˈeəɹɪŋ/
Definitions
01physical damage
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun
n. the act of pulling something apart or a hole made by pulling.
n. the act of pulling something apart by force or the resulting laceration.
“The tearing of the paper made a loud noise in the quiet library.”
“The surgeon noted that the tearing of the ligament was extensive, requiring a complex reconstructive procedure rather than a simple repair.”
Synonyms
02crying or watering eyes
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Medicine Technical
n. the production of tears in your eyes, often because of pain or irritation.
n. the physiological process of shedding tears, often as a response to irritation or emotional distress.
“The cold wind caused constant tearing and made it hard to see.”
“Excessive tearing in the left eye may indicate a blocked tear duct or a chronic inflammatory response to environmental allergens.”
Usage
Often used as an uncountable noun in medical contexts.
Synonyms
Antonyms
03very fast
C1 · Advanced Informal
adj. moving with great speed or force.
adj. characterised by extreme haste or violent speed.
“He was in a tearing hurry to catch the last train home.”
“The car went past at a tearing pace, barely slowing down as it navigated the narrow residential corners.”
Usage
Commonly used in the fixed phrase 'in a tearing hurry'.
Real-World Examples
“The attacks, he said, were "tearing Kyiv apart" .” “We've spent years tearing down names, statues and history.” Word family
NOUN
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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