tear down
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb (transitive): 1. To deliberately destroy a structure, especially a building, by pulling it apart or causing it to collapse. 2. To demolish or raze completely.
Usage
The verb "tear down" is used to describe the intentional and complete destruction of a man-made structure. It implies a forceful action resulting in the structure being reduced to rubble or a vacant lot. It is often used in contexts of urban development, construction, and renovation.
Examples
- The city decided to tear down the old factory to make space for a new park.
- They had to tear down the damaged wall after the storm.
- The historic theater was torn down last year, despite protests from the community.
Advanced Usage
- Figurative Use: Can be used metaphorically to mean to vigorously criticize or dismantle an argument, reputation, or idea.
- The critic's review sought to tear down the author's entire thesis.
- He spent the debate trying to tear down his opponent's character.
Variants and Related Words
- Demolish (verb): A more formal synonym for "tear down."
- Raze (verb): To completely destroy a building or town (often to the ground).
- Dismantle (verb): To take something apart piece by piece, which can be a more careful process than "tearing down."
- Knock down (phrasal verb): A more informal synonym for "tear down."
Synonyms
Demolish, raze, flatten, level, bulldoze, destroy, knock down.
Antonyms
Build, construct, erect, raise, put up.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Tear apart: To pull or rip something into pieces; can also mean to cause severe emotional distress.
- The dog tore apart the pillow.
- The scandal tore the family apart.
- Tear up: To rip something (like paper) into many small pieces.
- She tore up the letter in anger.
Verb
- tear down so as to make flat with the ground
- The building was levelled