Torn: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when someone is having a hard time making a decision and feels pulled in different directions.

• She was torn between staying home with her family and taking the job abroad.

This word is used when someone feels unsure or has mixed feelings about something.

• He's conflicted about whether to accept the promotion.
• She feels conflicted about moving to a new city.

Often used to describe someone facing difficulties or challenges, either physically, emotionally, or mentally.

• He is struggling to keep up with his workload.
• The small business is struggling to survive.

A term that specifically describes intense mental or emotional suffering, often due to grief, worry, or guilt.

• He was anguished by the loss of his best friend.
• Her anguished cries echoed through the night.

Refers to something that has been pulled apart or into pieces with force, typically used for fabric, paper, or other materials that have been physically damaged.

• Her dress was torn during the hiking trip
• The old book had several torn pages

Describes a long tear or cut in something, often made quickly or forcefully. Commonly used for cloth or paper that has been split or shredded.

• He accidentally ripped his jacket on the nail
• The letter was ripped in half before it was read

Implies something has been torn or cut into very small, thin pieces, often intentionally. Usually applied to paper, fabric, or other materials that can be finely divided.

• The confidential documents were shredded to ensure privacy
• The old t-shirt was shredded into cleaning rags

General term for harm or injury to an object or surface that affects its condition, value, or function. It can be used for both physical and non-physical harm.

• The storm caused significant damage to the roof
• The car's bumper was damaged in the accident