
Rip at
Physical Action
Used to illustrate the actual act of tearing with force, often by an animal or person.
The puppy started ripping at the cushion stuffing.
Intensity
Emphasizes the intensity or aggressiveness of the physical action being described.
He began ripping at the duct tape to free his hands.
Damage
Conveys the idea that the object is being damaged or destroyed in the process.
She ripped at the letter in a fit of anger, tearing it to shreds.