it is torn

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is torn" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an object that has been ripped or damaged, indicating its current state. Example: "The letter I received was disappointing because it is torn and difficult to read."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

In a way, it is torn between its past and its future: it still yearns for cultural homogeneity, but will in fact need more immigrants, particularly highly skilled ones, to make up for its low birth rate and to keep its economy competitive.It is the "legacy of romanticism", in the words of Dieter Oberndörfer, a political scientist at Freiburg University, that holds Germany back.

The Economist

It is torn, intrigued by its new possibilities but painfully aware that alone it does not count for much in the world.

The Economist

This distance, which for the idealized case is 2.44 Saturn radii (147,000 km [91,300 miles]), represents the closest distance to which a fairly large moon can approach the centre of its more-massive planetary parent before it is torn apart by tidal forces.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The next question is whether the Rangers can persuade the N.H.L. to stage its next outdoor game in Yankee Stadium before it is torn down.

The New York Times

"The fabric here was never that strong, and now it is torn".

The New York Times

It is torn, tugged this way and that, involved in conflicts and choices.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

It is tearing at my soul and I cannot speak rationally about it.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's torn.

The New Yorker

Then it was torn down.

The New Yorker

(It was torn down anyway).

The New York Times

Should it be torn down?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is torn", ensure the context clearly identifies what "it" refers to. This prevents ambiguity and ensures clarity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it is torn" metaphorically when a more precise word would better convey the intended meaning. For example, instead of saying "the country is torn", consider using "the country is divided" or "the country is conflicted".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is torn" functions as a descriptive statement, indicating the current state of an object or entity. Ludwig confirms that the structure is grammatically sound. Examples show it applied to physical objects like "paper" or metaphorical constructs like "social fabric".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

16%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is torn" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the state of an object or concept that has been ripped, damaged, or divided. As Ludwig confirms, it functions primarily as a descriptive statement, often found in news, wiki, and scientific contexts. While generally neutral in register, the phrase can be adapted for various situations. When using "it is torn", clarity is key: make sure the referent is unmistakable. For metaphorical uses, consider whether a more precise term might improve your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is ripped

Focuses specifically on tearing as an action, implying a forceful separation.

it is damaged

A more general term indicating something is impaired, but not necessarily torn.

it is frayed

Suggests wear and tear, particularly at the edges, rather than a complete tear.

it is shredded

Implies being torn into many small pieces.

it is split

Suggests separation along a line or seam.

it is ruptured

Often used for internal tears or breaches.

it is fractured

Commonly used for breaks in hard materials, like bones or rocks.

it is rent

A more formal or archaic term for being torn.

it is lacerated

Often used in medical contexts to describe a jagged tear.

it is severed

Implies a complete separation or cutting through.

FAQs

How can I use "it is torn" in a sentence?

You can use "it is torn" to describe the state of an object that has been ripped or damaged. For example, "The flag is no longer in good condition because "it is torn" and badly soiled".

What are some alternatives to saying "it is torn"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "it is ripped", "it is damaged", or "it is frayed" as alternatives to "it is torn".

When is it appropriate to use "it is torn" in writing?

"It is torn" is appropriate when you want to describe the physical condition of something that has been forcibly separated or damaged. Make sure that what "it" refers to is clear from the context.

What is the difference between "it is torn" and "it was torn"?

"It is torn" describes the current state of something, while "it was torn" describes a past action. For example, "The paper "it is torn" now", versus "The paper "it was torn" yesterday".