do not tear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do not tear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used as a directive or warning, often found on packaging or documents to prevent damage. Example: "Please handle this package with care and do not tear the label."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

"If they do not tear down those facilities, we will tear them down ourselves".

The New York Times

You do not tear up with longing at the sight of eggs.

The New Yorker

"Do not tear down!" pleaded a sign on what used to be the first floor of house in Lavallette.

The New York Times - Travel

Even if they do not tear down the ranch and build anew, she added, many people at least want to update that style.

The New York Times

Bake the potatoes only until they are tender, then handle them carefully when scraping the flesh out of the skins so that they do not tear.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Then (rather disappointingly for those whose imaginations run to tenderhearted indignation or to bloodlust) the hounds do not tear the stag to shreds.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Its pages don't tear.

The New York Times

Don't tear anything up," she said.

The New Yorker

Don't tear yourself apart".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Don't tear that building down.

The New York Times

"Don't tear the bark," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "do not tear" on packaging or instructions, pair it with a visual cue, such as an icon of a torn object, to enhance comprehension, especially for non-native speakers.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "do not tear" implies fragility in all cases. While it often suggests delicate handling, it can also apply to materials that are durable but should not be intentionally ripped or damaged.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do not tear" functions primarily as an imperative, directly instructing the recipient to avoid a specific action. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase serves as a directive or warning, typically to prevent damage. Examples show this usage in contexts ranging from handling food items to preserving historical artifacts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

32%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "do not tear" is a directive imperative, commonly used to prevent damage to delicate or important items. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and functions as a warning or instruction across various contexts. While interchangeable with phrases like "do not rip", "tear" tends to be favored in more formal settings. The phrase appears most frequently in News & Media and Wiki sources, indicating a neutral register suitable for both instructional and advisory purposes. Remember, the goal is to prevent unwanted damage, and using visual cues alongside the phrase can further enhance its effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do not rip

Substitutes "tear" with a synonym that carries a similar meaning.

avoid tearing

Replaces the negative imperative with a more general recommendation.

be careful not to tear

Adds emphasis on the caution needed to prevent tearing.

take care not to tear

Encourages caution to avoid tearing.

refrain from tearing

Uses a more formal and polite way to discourage tearing.

ensure no tearing

Shifts the focus to ensuring the absence of tearing.

protect from tearing

Emphasizes the need to safeguard against the possibility of tearing.

handle with care

Implies the need to avoid tearing through careful handling.

do not damage

Broadens the scope to include any form of damage, including tearing.

do not puncture

Replaces "tear" with a synonym that can be used in similar contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "do not tear" in a sentence?

You can use "do not tear" as a warning on a package ("Do not tear the packaging") or as an instruction in a guide ( "Do not tear the paper when folding it").

What are some alternatives to "do not tear"?

Alternatives include "avoid tearing", "refrain from tearing", or "do not rip", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "do not tear" or "do not rip"?

"Do not tear" and "do not rip" are largely interchangeable, but "tear" might be preferred in more formal contexts, while "rip" can sound more forceful or immediate.

When is it appropriate to use "do not tear"?

Use "do not tear" when you want to instruct someone to handle an object carefully to prevent it from being damaged by tearing. It is commonly used for paper, fabric, and packaging.