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Region: US | Usage example: The singer was on a tear this summer.

On a tear

Meaning

Having a streak of success.

Usage

Used for ongoing success.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Sports slang for unstoppable streaks.

Used in the 20th century in athletic coverage.

Related Idioms

Go for broke

Risk everything to achieve success.

Lightning in a bottle

Capture a rare success.

Barking up the wrong tree

Accusing or pursuing the wrong person/idea; making a false assumption.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.