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Definition tear up in British English

tear up phrasal verb

[transitive] phrasal verb
1

to destroy something such as a piece of paper or cloth by pulling it into pieces

Example

I tore up all the photos of my old boyfriend.

Synonyms and related words
2

to damage or destroy something by attacking it violently

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3

to refuse to accept something such as an agreement any longer

Example

We will tear up the whole treaty rather than accept this clause.

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4

to make someone feel very unhappy or upset

Example

It tears me up to leave you.

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5

to become tearful

Example

Swift teared up as the judge read his decision, saying there was no evidence that her actions were insincere.

6

to go out and enjoy yourself a lot at a party, club or bar

Example

We're going to tear it up tomorrow night.

Definition tear up in British English