scrap - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
scrap Word Meanings
- a small piece cut or torn from something
- material unsuitable for use or reuse
- to discard or abandon (as in ideas or plans)
scrap Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
scrap Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/skræp/
US
/skræp/
scrap Word Etymology
scrap: (scrap + -p) from Middle English, influenced by Old Norse 'skrap' (a small piece). Memory image: Imagine collecting little bits of paper and metal scraps from your desk for recycling, which represents waste and reuse.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Scrap is a flexible word in English. As a noun, it can mean a small piece torn from something, for example a scrap of paper, fabric, or metal. As a mass noun, 'scrap' often refers to waste material that is leftover or unsuitable for its original use, such as scrap metal or scrap wood. As a verb, to scrap something means to discard, cancel, or abandon it—like scrapping a project plan, a proposal, or a rule. People also use 'scrap' in phrases like 'scrap by' or 'scrap value.' Learners should note that 'scrap' can be countable (a scrap of paper) or uncountable (scrap metal), and collocations like 'scrap metal recycling' are common.
Usage Reminders
- Remember scrap can refer to a small piece or to waste material.
- Use 'a scrap of' with a countable noun.
- To scrap a plan means to discard or cancel it.
- ' scrap metal' is a common, uncountable collocation in recycling contexts.
- Scrap can be plural (scraps) when talking about several pieces.
Common Misconceptions
- Scrap only means metal waste.
- A scrap cannot be plural; you must say 'a scrap' only.
- To scrap a plan means to improve it.
- Scrap and scrape are interchangeable.
- Scrap is never used as a verb.
Thinking Differences
Scrap has both a small-piece sense and a waste-material sense, plus a verb sense. Learners often mix up 'a scrap' with 'scrape' or misapply to non-waste pieces.
Learning Tips
- Visualize scraps as small leftovers from different materials.
- Practice with 'a scrap of' + countable noun to express a small piece.
- Learn 'to scrap' a plan to mean discard or cancel it.
- Remember common collocations: scrap metal, scrap value, recycling scrap.
- Differentiate countable vs uncountable usage (a scrap of paper vs scrap metal).
- Use real-life sentences to reinforce context (not just dictionary definitions).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'scrap'?
A.A small piece
B.A large portion
C.A whole object
D.An empty space
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'scrap' used correctly?
A.She threw away the scrap of paper.
B.He bought a new scrap of furniture.
C.The scrap sky was clear.
D.They found a scrap treasure.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'scrap'?
A.Whole
B.Complete
C.Piece
D.Plentiful
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'scrap'?
A.Portion
B.Bulk
C.Piece
D.Whole
Step 5: Mastery
How is 'scrap' commonly used in real-life?
A.Ignoring small pieces around the house.
B.Throwing away valuable items.
C.Buying brand new items only.
D.Collecting metal scrap for recycling.
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