Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

to tear someone to pieces

idiom

/tə tɛr ˈsʌmwʌn tə ˈpiːsɪz/

Definition

To criticize or attack someone very harshly.

Examples

After the debate, the critics started to tear him to pieces, questioning his qualifications.
The review tore the movie to pieces, highlighting its numerous flaws.
She felt that the feedback from her peers was only meant to tear her to pieces instead of providing constructive criticism.

Meaning

This phrase conveys a strong emotional response where someone is thoroughly criticized or destroyed verbally, often implying a complete dismantling of their arguments, character, or actions.