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torn

adj.
US //ˈtɔɹn// UK //tˈɔːn// torn
  1. 1 ripped or damaged (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    damaged by being pulled apart into pieces.

    having been pulled apart or into pieces by force; physically ruptured.

    Example

    He had to throw away his favourite shirt because it was badly torn.

    Example

    The investigators found several torn documents in the wastebasket, suggesting that someone had tried to destroy the evidence in a hurry.
  2. 2 unable to decide (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    feeling like you are pulled in two directions because you cannot choose between two options.

    experiencing a conflict between two different choices, loyalties, or courses of action.

    Example

    I am torn between going to the party and staying home to rest.

    Example

    She felt deeply torn between her desire to accept the promotion abroad and her responsibility to care for her ageing parents at home.
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  1. 3 with irregular edges (adj.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Science

    having deep and uneven cuts along the edges, like some leaves.

    possessing marginal incisions that are deep and irregular in shape.

    Example

    The plant is easy to identify because of its uniquely torn leaves.

    Example

    The specimen is characterised by its torn leaf margins, which distinguish it from other closely related species in the same genus.

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