Indicates aggressive pulling or ripping, often associated with damage or destruction. The hurricane's winds began to tear at the rooftops.
Pro Tip 2/3
Intense Struggle
Suggests a struggle or effort to separate something with force or urgency. During the rescue, firefighters had to tear at the debris to reach the survivors.
Pro Tip 3/3
Emotional Charge
Can imply an underlying emotional reason for a physically violent action. In her anger, she began to tear at the letters he had sent her.