Ripsnort: Torn would imply that it was still partially attached. This one was totally detached.
That's the problem with English language - it being too primitive and having to rely on extended sentences and memorized expressions to express meaning. In Russian, one can add short preffixes to the root to convey the nuances.
Like "to tear-torn" is translated by a root "rvat'-rvan":
otorvan - completely torn off at one end
sorvan - torn off with a root at one end
razorvan - torn in the middle, completely apart, ends still attached
porvan - torn in the middle, most likely seriously tear but not apart
nadorvan - some tear, definitely not apart
Of course all above applies only to an object/subject of masculine gender. Syffix "rvana" would indicate feminine and "o" - neuter, as is the case with a ligament.
I still think with a Russuan accent sometimes, so I tend to say "torn" where "torn appart" or "severed" would have been more applicable.
miko
