Antonyms for the phrase "tear into" include words such as "soothe," "calm," "pacify," and "reassure." Rather than aggressively attacking a problem, these words describe actions that would ease a situation or provide comfort to an individual. Instead of tearing into a project with force, one could approach it calmly and with care. Instead of tearing into someone with criticism or anger, one could soothe them with kind words or actions. Overall, the opposite of tearing into is approaching with a sense of gentleness, patience, and understanding.