tear away
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To remove (oneself or another person), overcoming that person's reluctance to be so removed.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
I couldn't tear myself away from the movie after I had begun watching it.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see tear, away.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “tear away” mean?
To remove (oneself or another person), overcoming that person's reluctance to be so removed.
Is “tear away” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.