Language Research

rip · verb I or T

/rɪp/Full view

rip

B2 to tear quickly and suddenly, or to tear something quickly and suddenly

Dictionary examples:

His new shorts ripped when he fell down.

She ripped her dress getting off her bike.

He excitedly ripped open the package.

Learner example:

While I was walking I step[p]ed on my dress and ripped it. (First Certificate in English; B2; Greek)

rip sth out/off/from, etc.

C1 to remove something by pulling it away

Dictionary example:

The previous owner ripped out the fireplace.

Learner example:

During the moving process two legs of my 100 year old dinning table w[ere] broken. One leg was completely ripped off, while the other is just managing to hold on. (International English Language Testing System; C1; Hindi)

rip sb off

C2 to cheat someone by making them pay too much money for something

Dictionary example:

We got ripped off when we bought our car.

Learner example:

Although I prefer wedding ceremonies the traditional way, I do feel that it's also a big market where brides-to-be get ripped off by the ridiculous prices of wedding gowns, venues and photographers. (International English Language Testing System; C2; Afrikaans)