scrape - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
scrape Word Meanings
- to remove something from a surface
- to drag or glide over a surface
- to gather or collect by scraping
scrape Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
scrape Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/skreɪp/
US
/skreɪp/
scrape Word Etymology
scrape = scrap + -e | Old Norse (skrapa) → Middle English → Modern English. Imagine someone removing paint from a wall, leaving behind a pile of scraped-off bits.
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
Scrape means to remove material from a surface by rubbing with a tool, or to drag a surface across something with a scraping motion. It also covers gathering or collecting items by scraping, such as scraping data or names from a list. The term is used literally for painting or dirt removal, and figuratively for barely making ends meet or quickly assembling funds. Etymology traces to scrap plus -e, via Old Norse skrapa into Middle English and Modern English. Learners should note the difference between a physical scrape and a data scrape, and be aware of common phrasal uses like scrape by and scrape together.
Usage Reminders
- Used for removing material from a surface (scrape off paint).
- Also describes dragging or gliding a surface over something (scrape along).
- Can mean gathering data or items by scraping (web scraping).
- Common idioms: scrape by, scrape together money.
- Pronunciation: skreɪp; avoid mixing with scrap or scratch.
Common Misconceptions
- Scrape is only physical removal, not data collection
- Confusing scrape with scratch or scrap
- Scrape by means survive without effort, not with difficulty
- Assuming scrape always implies harsh action
- Mispronouncing as 'skrapp' or 'scrap' in all contexts
Thinking Differences
English often blends literal and figurative senses in one word; learners should note collocations and phrasal verbs like scrape by and scrape together, which have distinct nuances from plain physically scraping.
Learning Tips
- Practice both literal and data-scrape contexts in sentences.
- Memorize common collocations: scrape off, scrape by, scrape together.
- Distinguish from scratch, scrap, and scrappy.
- Listen for pronunciation: /skreɪp/.
- Use the term 'web scraping' for data collection.
- Create a mini glossary of related terms (scrape, scrape off, scraping).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'scrape'?
A.Take
B.Rub
C.Remove
D.Clean
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'scrape' used correctly?
A.He sing a scrape song.
B.I love to scrape with my friends.
C.She scrape the table clean.
D.The dog barks loudly.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'scrape'?
A.Scratch
B.Smooth
C.Polish
D.Shine
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'scrape'?
A.Dirty
B.Smooth
C.Rub
D.Rough
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'scrape' in a real-life context?
A.She played the piano beautifully.
B.The ocean breeze was refreshing.
C.We enjoyed a picnic in the park.
D.I had to scrape the ice off my car window this morning.
Related Listening
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