1. to rip someone apart savagely. (See also tear something apart.)
> Max threatened to tear Tom apart.

2. to cause two people, presumably lovers, to separate unwillingly.
> The enormous disruption of the accident tore them apart and they separated.
> The bickering between their parents finally tore apart the engaged couple.

3. to cause someone enormous grief or emotional pain.
> The death of her dog tore her apart.

4. to criticize someone mercilessly.
> The critic tore apart the entire cast of the play.