The phrase "tear on" can mean a gradual wearing down or damage over time. Synonyms for this phrase include: fray, wear, rub, deteriorate, erode, corrode, chafe, weather, oxidize, and rust. Each of these synonyms implies a different degree of damage and the type of material being affected. For example, "fray" suggests a material becoming worn from repeated rubbing or scraping, while "oxidize" implies a chemical process breaking down the material. No matter the specific synonym used, the phrase "tear on" indicates a slow but steady decline in an object's condition.