tear-up
/ˈtɪə.rʌp/ IELTSAcademic
noun
A tear-up is a loud, rough, or wild party or argument. It often means people are drinking, shouting, or fighting. In British English, it can also mean a serious emotional crying spell.
- There was a tear-up after the final match.
- The dinner turned into a tear-up.
- She had a tear-up when she heard the news.
Adinary Nuance
A tear-up is more informal and more chaotic than a party. It is not the same as a celebration, which can be happy and orderly. It is also different from an argument, because it often suggests noise, mess, or even fighting. In British English, it can also mean a crying fit, so context matters.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- cuộc nhậu tưng bừng
- Spanish
- fiesta alborotada
- Chinese
- 闹腾的聚会
- Japanese
- どんちゃん騒ぎ
- Korean
- 난장판 술자리
Etymology
Tear-up formed in English from the verb phrase “tear up,” meaning to destroy, upset, or cause trouble. Its noun use developed in British English in the 20th century.
Common phrases
a big tear-upend in a tear-uphave a tear-up
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is tear-up formal or informal?
- It is informal. It is common in spoken British English, not in formal writing.
- Does tear-up mean a party or a fight?
- It can mean both. Usually, it suggests a noisy, rough event with drinking or shouting.
- Is tear-up used in American English?
- It is much more common in British English. American speakers may sound unusual using it.
- Can tear-up mean crying?
- Yes, in British English it can mean a period of heavy crying.