Tears down is a phrase used to describe the act of destroying, demolishing, or dismantling something. There are several synonyms for the phrase which include wrecking, smashing, shattering, breaking, felling, leveling, blasting, hacking, and dismantling. These words can be used interchangeably in the context of destruction or demolition of a physical structure or even a social construct. For instance, one can say that the hurricane tears down houses and uproots trees. Similarly, one can say that prejudice tears down the fabric of a society. These synonyms are useful in adding variety and depth to one's language while conveying the same basic meaning.