English

tear down

tɛə(ɹ)ˈdaʊn
Meaning: to demolish or remove a structure; to harshly criticize or discredit someone
Part of Speech: Verb

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Verb inflections

Form Inflected form
Base tear down
3rd person singular present tears down
Present participle tearing down
Past tore down
Will future will tear down
Going-to future going to tear down
Imperative negative don't tear down / do not tear down

Example

The city must tear down the old bridge before the replacement can open.
The city must demolish the old bridge before the replacement can open.

Usage Notes

As a phrasal verb, it is common for buildings, walls, and bridges. In a figurative use, it can mean to attack an idea or a person harshly.

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