Tear/rip the heart out of something

Definition 1 of 2

Pro Tip 1/3

Understand 'heart' as the most vital part, not the actual organ.

Selling off the old library would tear the heart out of our town's history.

Pro Tip 2/3

The phrase usually suggests strong emotions, like sadness or anger.

The sudden resignation of our CEO has ripped the heart out of the company.

Pro Tip 3/3

Remember it's a figure of speech, not to be taken literally.

Replacing the old staff could rip the heart out of the team's spirit.

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