Pronunciation: [tˈi͡ə ʃˈiːt] (IPA) 
The word "tear sheet" is spelled as /tɛɹ ʃit/. The first syllable, "tear", is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɛ/ as in "bed" and the consonant sound /t/. The second syllable, "sheet", is pronounced with the vowel sound /iː/ as in "meet" and the consonant sounds /ʃ/ and /t/. The word refers to a page from a publication that has been torn out for reference or display. It is commonly used in advertising and design industries.
A tear sheet refers to a single page or section of a magazine, newspaper, or other printed publication that is intentionally removed or torn out for various purposes. Typically, tear sheets are selected because they contain a specific article, photograph, or advertisement that is of interest or relevance to the individual or entity collecting them.
Tear sheets are commonly used by photographers, models, graphic designers, and advertising agencies as a means of showcasing their work and accomplishments. For instance, fashion models often collect tear sheets showcasing their appearances in magazines or relevant photo shoots to demonstrate their talent and versatility to potential employers. Similarly, photographers may use tear sheets to exhibit their skills and style to prospective clients or employers.
In the advertising industry, tear sheets are utilized by agencies and clients alike to evaluate and assess the effectiveness and impact of specific advertisements. By removing a tear sheet containing an advertisement from a publication, advertisers can gauge the visual presentation, layout, and overall aesthetic of the ad. These tear sheets also serve as a tangible record of the ad's publication and circulation, providing useful data for future marketing decisions.
Furthermore, tear sheets can function as a source of inspiration or reference for designers, artists, and creative professionals. By collecting tear sheets with eye-catching designs, innovative layouts, or exceptional content, individuals can study and replicate effective techniques in their own work.
In summary, a tear sheet is a single piece of a printed publication that has been deliberately torn or removed for the purpose of display, evaluation, or reference in various industries.
The etymology of the word "tear sheet" comes from the verb "tear", meaning to pull apart or separate forcefully, and the noun "sheet", which refers to a flat piece of material. In the context of media, advertising, or publishing, a tear sheet originally referred to a page or a section torn out of a publication such as a magazine or newspaper. These torn-out pages were often used as samples or proofs of an advertisement or an article to showcase to clients, advertisers, or portfolio holders. Over time, the term "tear sheet" has also been extended to include any single page or printout that has been separated or detached from a larger document.
