torn

The word “torn” means unable to choose between two or more options because you feel pulled in different directions. In plain terms, stuck between two choices, or physically ripped.

“Torn” is pronounced tawn (/tɔɹn/ in IPA).

Here is “torn” used in a sentence: “She was torn between the job offer in London and staying near her family.”

“Torn” is an adjective.

“Torn” is a fairly common word in modern English.

“Torn” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: unable to choose between two or more options because you feel pulled in different directions.

"Tore" is the simple past tense of "tear" and stands alone: "He tore the letter in half." "Torn" is the past participle and needs a helping verb such as "has", "was", or "had" — "the letter was torn" — or works as an adjective, as in "a torn sleeve."

For fabric or paper the two are nearly interchangeable, though "ripped" often suggests a quicker, more violent action and sounds slightly more informal. Only "torn" works for indecision: you can be torn between two job offers, but not "ripped" between them.

Yes — "I'm torn" is a complete, natural sentence meaning "I can't decide." The options can be left unstated or added with "between" or "over", as in "I'm torn over whether to go."