rip out

To remove something by tearing it away from what holds it.

• Don't rip out that page.
• She ripped the photo out of the magazine.
• Someone had ripped out the last chapter.

How to use it: rip something out of something (He ripped a page out of his notebook.)

Similar words: tear out

Common phrases: rip out pages, rip out something

To remove something with great force, often damaging what holds it.

• They ripped out the old pipes.
• The wind ripped the gate out of its posts.
• Are you going to rip out the whole kitchen?

How to use it: rip something out (The workers ripped the old kitchen out.); rip something out of something (The storm ripped a tree out of the ground.)

Similar words: tear out, wrench out

Common phrases: rip out pipes, rip out kitchens, rip out something

To remove the thread holding pieces of cloth together so you can separate or sew them again.

• Rip out these stitches first.
• She ripped out the seam to alter the dress.
• Have you ripped out the old stitching?

How to use it: rip something out (I had to rip the stitches out and sew the hem again.)

Similar words: unpick, unstitch

Opposites: stitch

Common phrases: rip out stitches, rip out seams

To say something suddenly and loudly, often because you are angry or surprised.

• He ripped out an angry curse.
• She ripped out a sharp warning as the cart rolled away.
• The startled guard ripped out a shout.

How to use it: rip out something (He ripped out a curse when the hammer struck his thumb.)

Similar words: blurt out, exclaim

Common phrases: rip out curses, rip out something