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to tear up
[phrase form: tear]
01
to rip something into small pieces
Transitive: to tear up paper
Examples
She tore up the old love letters after the breakup.
The frustrated artist tore his failed sketch up in frustration.
02
to begin to cry or become emotional
Intransitive
Examples
He ca n't help tearing up each time the conversation shifts to the loss of a loved one.
He starts to tear up talking about the support he received from friends during tough times.
