on a tear: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘on a tear’ mean?
The idiom "on a tear" means to be in a period of great energy, enthusiasm, or success, often characterized by continuous and rapid activity or accomplishment.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "shed a tear" refers to the act of crying or expressing sadness by letting tears flow from one's eyes.
Shed a tear is an idiom that refers to the act of crying or showing emotion through tears. It is a common phrase in the English language and is often used to convey a sense of sadness or sympathy. The origins of this idiom are unclear, but it has been in use for many years and can be found in various forms of literature and speech.
The idiom "run on empty" means to continue doing something despite having no energy, resources, or motivation left.
The idiom "run high" refers to when emotions or tensions are intense or reaching a peak level. It describes a situation where feelings, such as anger, excitement, or anxiety, are strong and powerful.
The idiom "rough trot" refers to a difficult or challenging period of time or situation. It conveys the idea of facing hardships or experiencing a series of problems.
The idiom *rough patch* refers to a difficult or challenging period of time in someone's life or a situation. It implies that things are not going well and there are obstacles or problems to overcome.
Rough patch is an idiom that describes a difficult period in someone's life or a challenging time for a relationship, organization, or project.
The idiom "rock on" means to continue doing something in an enthusiastic and confident manner, often used as a way to express encouragement or admiration.
The idiom "rock on" is a commonly used expression in American English. It is derived from the action of rocking, which involves moving back and forth in a rhythmic manner. The idiom has a figurative meaning that conveys a positive and enthusiastic attitude.
The idiom "rip-snorting mad" means to be extremely angry or furious.
The idiom "rend one's garments" means to express extreme sorrow, grief, or distress by tearing one's clothes apart forcefully. This action is often done as a cultural or religious expression of anguish or despair.
The idiom "reduce someone to tears" means to make someone cry or become extremely upset.
The idiom "reduce someone to tears" is a well-known expression in the English language. It is often used to describe a situation where a person becomes extremely emotional and starts crying. The phrase suggests that something has had such a profound impact on someone that their emotions have overwhelmed them to the point of tears.
Furious Momentum
The idiom "on a tear" in American English describes someone's exceptional behavior or performance. It originated in the United States and is typically used to describe individuals who are performing exceptionally well or exhibiting an unstoppable, energetic drive. Whether it's in sports, work, or personal achievements, this phrase conveys a sense of heightened enthusiasm, ambition, or success.
One possible source of the idiom's metaphorical meaning could be the image of a person tearing through a physical barrier or obstacle. The idiom can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on the intended meaning and the behaviors or actions being described. It is important to consider the context of the conversation or situation in which the idiom is used to fully understand its intended meaning.
One related idiom that shares the word "tear" with "on a tear" is "burst into tears." While "on a tear" suggests energetic and unstoppable behavior, "burst into tears" describes someone suddenly and uncontrollably crying. The emotions expressed in these two idioms are quite different, with "on a tear" conveying a sense of energy and achievement while "burst into tears" represents overwhelming sadness or distress. Although the words are similar, the idioms' meanings are distinct.
Another related idiom that has a similar word is "shed a tear." While "on a tear" suggests productivity and achievement, "shed a tear" implies a single tear being released as a sign of emotion or sentimentality. Unlike "on a tear," which conveys energy and activity, "shed a tear" highlights a more delicate and introspective moment. Again, while the words may be similar, the idioms themselves have different meanings and usage.
Lastly, the idiom "on fire" shares a similar idea of exceptional performance with "on a tear." While "on a tear" implies unstoppable progress or achievement, "on fire" denotes someone performing at an extraordinarily high level. Both idioms convey a sense of elevated performance and success, but "on fire" may specifically refer to a person excelling in a particular area or activity. This idiom is commonly used in various contexts, much like "on a tear," further showcasing their similarities in meaning.
Overall, the idiom "on a tear" captures the essence of exceptional performance, intense activity, and a sense of unstoppable progress or achievement. Its origins remain uncertain, but its popularity and widespread usage in American English highlight its enduring relevance. Whether it's someone excelling in sports, work, or personal endeavors, "on a tear" is a versatile phrase that conveys energy, ambition, and remarkable success.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom on a tear can be used in a sentence:
- 1. After his promotion, Jack has been on a tear, closing deals left and right.
- 2. The team was on a tear, winning seven consecutive matches.
- 3. Sarah has been on a tear in her studies, acing all her exams this semester.
More "Momentum" idioms
