Translation guide
The English word 'tearing' can refer to the act of ripping something apart, the state of being torn, or a sharp, intense pain. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for these meanings.
Expressing the action of tearing something, such as paper or cloth, by pulling it apart.
The most common verb for tearing paper, cloth, or thin materials. Often implies deliberate action.
彼は手紙を破った。
He tore up the letter.
この紙を破ってください。
Please tear this paper.
Often used for tearing cloth or flesh along a line, or splitting something by force. Can sound more violent or forceful than 破る.
彼女は布を裂いた。
She tore the cloth.
To tear apart by pulling in opposite directions. Emphasizes the pulling action.
犬が新聞を引き裂いた。
The dog tore the newspaper apart.
Describing the state where something gets torn, often accidentally.
Intransitive verb meaning 'to be torn' or 'to get torn'. Used for paper, fabric, etc.
この紙はすぐ破れる。
This paper tears easily.
ポケットが破れている。
The pocket is torn.
Intransitive verb for splitting or tearing along a line, often for cloth or skin.
Describing a sudden, sharp pain, often as if being torn.
General phrase for 'severe pain'. Can be used for tearing sensations.
胸に激しい痛みを感じた。
I felt a tearing pain in my chest.
Literally 'pain as if being torn apart'. Vivid expression for a tearing sensation.
足に引き裂かれるような痛みが走った。
A tearing pain shot through my leg.
When eyes fill with tears.
The sleeve tore.