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B1 Noun (plural) / Verb (third-person singular) #43 le plus courant 15 min de lecture

scrapes

Top 43

At the A1 level, you should think of 'scrapes' as a simple action word. Imagine you have a piece of bread with some butter on it. If you use a knife to move the butter, you are scraping. Or, think about a cat. A cat uses its claws to touch the door. This is also scraping. It is a physical movement where one thing touches another thing and moves across it. You might also hear this word when you fall down. If you fall on the ground and your knee hurts a little bit, and the skin is a bit red, you have a 'scrape'. It is a very small injury. It is not a big problem. You can say, 'I have a scrape on my arm.' Or you can say, 'He scrapes the plate.' These are simple ways to use the word. You don't need to worry about the difficult meanings yet. Just remember it is about touching and moving on a surface.

For A2 learners, 'scrapes' starts to become more useful in daily life. You can use it to describe cleaning or preparing things. For example, in the winter, you might say, 'My dad scrapes the ice off the car.' This is a very common sentence. You are removing something (ice) from a surface (the car window). You can also use it for food. 'She scrapes the last bit of yogurt from the cup.' It shows that you are being very careful to get everything. As a noun, you might have 'scrapes' after playing sports or playing outside. 'The children have scrapes on their legs from the park.' It is a plural word here because there is more than one small injury. It is a good word to use when you are talking about your day or describing simple tasks you do at home. It helps you be more specific than just saying 'clean' or 'hurt'.

At the B1 level, you can use 'scrapes' in more interesting ways. This is the level where you learn about idioms and metaphorical meanings. One important phrase is 'to scrape by'. This means you have just enough money to pay for your food and house, but no extra. You can say, 'He is a student, so he just scrapes by every month.' Another meaning is 'to get into a scrape'. This is a British way of saying you are in a little bit of trouble. Maybe you forgot your homework, or you were late for a meeting. These are 'scrapes'. You are also more comfortable using the word as a verb for different subjects. 'The branch scrapes against the window when it is windy.' This describes a sound and an action. You can also use it for technical things, like 'scraping a website' for information. At this level, 'scrapes' is a very flexible word that you can use in many different conversations.

B2 learners should understand the nuance of 'scrapes' compared to other words. You know that a 'scrape' is different from a 'scratch' because a scrape covers a larger area. You can use 'scrapes' to describe textures and sounds in your writing. For example, 'The harsh sound of the chair as it scrapes the floor set my teeth on edge.' This shows a higher level of English because you are describing a feeling. You also understand the idiomatic use of 'scraping the bottom of the barrel'. This means using the worst or last options because you have nothing else. If a company hires someone bad because they have no other choice, they are 'scraping the bottom of the barrel'. You can use 'scrapes' in professional contexts too, like describing how a tool prepares a surface for painting. Your use of the word is now more precise and covers both physical and abstract situations.

At the C1 level, you use 'scrapes' with precision and stylistic flair. You might use it in a literary way to describe a character's rough life: 'His face was a map of old scrapes and scars, each telling a story of a narrow escape.' You understand the technical applications in fields like data science (web scraping) or engineering (precision scraping of metal). You can also use the word to describe social dynamics. If someone 'scrapes through' a difficult situation, you are highlighting how close they came to failure. You might use it to describe the sound of a voice: 'His voice scrapes like sandpaper.' This metaphorical use adds depth to your descriptions. You are also aware of the historical context of the word, perhaps recognizing it in older literature where characters 'get into scrapes' frequently. Your vocabulary is rich enough to choose 'scrapes' over 'scratches' or 'rubs' to convey a specific intensity and texture.

For C2 speakers, 'scrapes' is a tool for subtle expression. You can use it to create specific imagery in poetry or high-level prose. You might discuss the 'geological scrapes' left by receding glaciers, using the word to describe massive natural forces. You understand the most obscure idioms and can use them ironically or for emphasis. You might analyze the 'scraping' nature of a particular musical performance, discussing the friction between the bow and the string as a deliberate artistic choice. In a business context, you might discuss the ethics of 'data scrapes' and the legal boundaries of information harvesting. The word is no longer just a simple action or a minor injury; it is a versatile concept that you can apply to physics, sociology, technology, and art. You use it with total confidence, knowing exactly how it will be perceived by other native or high-level speakers.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

scrapes en 30 secondes

Scrapes are minor skin injuries or the act of rubbing a surface with a hard tool.
It can also mean small, embarrassing troubles or managing to survive with very little.
The word functions as both a plural noun and a third-person singular verb.
Common in contexts like cleaning, first aid, and describing difficult social situations.

The word scrapes is a versatile English term that functions both as a plural noun and the third-person singular form of the verb 'to scrape'. At its core, the word describes an action involving friction, pressure, and the movement of one object across another. When we talk about physical actions, scrapes refers to the process of cleaning, smoothing, or removing a surface layer by rubbing a hard tool or edge against it. For example, a chef scrapes the remaining batter from a bowl, or a worker scrapes old paint off a wooden door. This physical interaction is often noisy and requires a certain level of force. Beyond the mechanical action, the word is ubiquitous in the context of minor injuries. If a child falls off a bicycle, they often end up with scrapes on their knees or elbows. These are not deep wounds but rather 'abrasions' where the top layer of skin has been rubbed away by contact with a rough surface like asphalt or concrete.

Physical Action: The repetitive motion of a blade or edge removing material from a substrate.

In a more metaphorical or informal sense, scrapes describes difficult, awkward, or slightly embarrassing situations that a person might find themselves in. This usage is particularly common in British English, where someone might be described as 'always getting into scrapes'. These are usually not life-threatening crises but rather small troubles caused by mischief, poor judgment, or bad luck. Think of a student who is caught passing notes or a person who accidentally offends a neighbor; these are the 'scrapes' of daily life. The word carries a connotation of something that is bothersome but ultimately manageable, much like the physical injury of the same name. Furthermore, the verb form is used in the idiom 'to scrape by', which means to manage to live or survive with very little money or resources. When we say someone scrapes through an exam, we mean they passed by the narrowest of margins, barely touching the required standard.

The gardener carefully scrapes the dried mud from his boots before entering the house.

The sound associated with scrapes is also a key part of its identity. It is often a harsh, grating, or screeching sound. When a chair scrapes across a hardwood floor, the noise is distinctive and often unpleasant. This auditory quality transfers to how we describe voices or music; a 'scraping' sound is one that is discordant or rough. In the world of technology and data, the term has taken on a new life. Web 'scraping' is the automated process of extracting data from websites. Here, the software scrapes the information from the 'surface' of the web page to be used elsewhere. This modern usage maintains the original logic of the word: removing a layer of something (data) from a surface (a website) using a specific tool (a script or bot).

After the hike, her legs were covered in minor scrapes from the thick brambles.

Social Context: Used to describe minor social troubles or mischief, often in a lighthearted way.

Historically, the word comes from Old Norse and Old English roots, emphasizing the act of scratching or carving. This ancient connection to manual labor and physical struggle is still felt today. Whether you are talking about a child's skinned knee, a painter's preparation of a wall, or a person barely making enough money to pay rent, scrapes connects these diverse experiences through the shared theme of friction and marginality. It is a word that bridges the gap between the physical world of textures and the abstract world of human experience and social navigation.

He scrapes together just enough money each month to cover his tuition fees.

Technical Usage: In computing, it refers to the automated extraction of data from a display or website.

The metal shovel scrapes loudly against the icy pavement during the winter morning.

Young Peter was always getting into scrapes with the local authorities for his harmless pranks.

Using the word scrapes correctly requires an understanding of its dual nature as a noun and a verb. As a verb, it follows the standard conjugation for third-person singular subjects (he, she, it). It describes an action that is currently happening or happens habitually. For instance, 'She scrapes the frost off her windshield every morning.' Here, the verb indicates a routine physical task. It is important to note the preposition that often follows the verb. We 'scrape off' something unwanted, 'scrape together' something scarce, or 'scrape against' a surface. Each preposition changes the nuance of the action significantly. 'Scraping off' is about removal; 'scraping together' is about accumulation through effort; 'scraping against' is about contact and friction.

Verb Usage (Action): The cat scrapes at the door when it wants to come inside.

When used as a plural noun, scrapes refers to multiple instances of surface damage or multiple difficult situations. In a medical or first-aid context, you might say, 'The athlete had several scrapes on his shins after the match.' This implies that the skin was damaged in several distinct places. In a narrative context, you might say, 'His childhood was full of scrapes and adventures.' This uses the word to mean minor troubles or escapades. Notice how the noun version is often paired with adjectives like 'minor', 'nasty', 'bloody', or 'unfortunate'. These adjectives help define the severity and nature of the scrapes being discussed.

The old wooden boat scrapes against the dock whenever the tide comes in.

Another common way to use scrapes is in the context of efficiency or minimalism. To 'scrape the bottom of the barrel' is a common idiom meaning to use the very last and usually worst resources available because nothing else is left. In this case, 'scrapes' isn't the word used, but the verb form 'scrapes' would appear if we said, 'He scrapes the bottom of the barrel for excuses.' This highlights the desperate or thorough nature of the action. Similarly, 'scraping the surface' means only dealing with the most obvious parts of a problem. If a report only scrapes the surface of the issue, it hasn't gone into enough detail. These idiomatic uses are essential for reaching a B2 or C1 level of English proficiency.

She scrapes the burnt toast over the sink to remove the blackened bits.

Noun Usage (Injuries): Apply some antiseptic to those scrapes to prevent infection.

In technical writing, you might encounter scrapes in engineering or geology. A glacier scrapes the bedrock, creating striations. A machinist scrapes a metal surface to ensure it is perfectly flat. In these contexts, the word is precise and professional. It describes a controlled removal of material. When writing about these topics, ensure that the subject of the sentence is the agent of the scraping (the glacier, the tool, the person) and the object is the surface being modified. This clarity is vital for technical communication.

The puppy scrapes its paws against the floor when it is excited for a walk.

Metaphorical Trouble: He has a knack for getting into scrapes but always finds a way out.

A few scrapes on the car's bumper showed where he had hit the garage wall.

The violinist scrapes the bow across the strings, producing a haunting note.

The word scrapes is a staple of everyday English, appearing in various environments from the domestic to the professional. One of the most common places you will hear it is in a household setting, particularly in the kitchen. Parents often tell children to 'scrape their plates' before putting them in the dishwasher. This means using a fork or spatula to remove leftover food. You might also hear it during home renovation projects. If someone is removing old wallpaper or floor tiles, they will talk about how the tool scrapes the surface. The sound of this action is so distinct that people often use the word to describe the noise itself, even if they can't see the action happening.

Domestic Setting: Commonly used in the kitchen or during cleaning and maintenance tasks around the house.

In a medical or school environment, scrapes is the go-to word for minor injuries. A school nurse might say, 'It's just a few scrapes; you'll be fine after a band-aid.' It sounds less serious than 'wounds' or 'lacerations', making it a comforting term for children. You will also hear it in sports commentary. If a player falls on a hard court or turf, the commentator might mention the 'painful scrapes' they are likely to have. This usage emphasizes the physical toll of the sport on the athlete's skin. In these contexts, the word is almost always a noun.

The sound of the shovel as it scrapes the gravel is the only noise in the quiet garden.

In the business and tech world, the word has migrated into digital terminology. You will hear data scientists and developers talking about 'web scrapes' or 'data scrapes'. This refers to the output of a program that has collected information from a website. In a meeting, someone might say, 'The script scrapes the competitor's prices every hour.' This is a highly specific, modern usage that has become very common in the last decade. It treats the website as a physical surface from which data can be 'scraped' off. This metaphorical extension shows how flexible the word is.

She has a collection of scrapes on her knuckles from working on the old car engine.

Professional Tech Context: Refers to the automated collection of data, often called 'web scraping'.

Finally, you will hear scrapes in storytelling and literature, especially when describing a character's history or personality. A 'lovable rogue' is a character who is always getting into scrapes. This gives the word a slightly nostalgic or classic feel. It suggests a life lived with a bit of risk and excitement, but without any truly dark or tragic consequences. In this sense, the word is used to build character and set a tone of lighthearted adventure. Whether in a classic novel or a modern TV show, this usage remains a popular way to describe minor conflict.

The wind scrapes the dry branches against the windowpane all night long.

Literary Usage: Used to describe the minor, often humorous, troubles of a protagonist.

The baker scrapes the flour off the counter with a metal bench scraper.

Despite his many scrapes with the law, he remained a popular figure in the town.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with scrapes is confusing it with 'scratches'. While they are similar, there is a subtle difference in the nature of the damage. A 'scratch' is usually a thin, linear mark made by a sharp object, like a needle or a cat's claw. A scrape, on the other hand, involves a broader area where the surface has been rubbed away. If you use a key to mark a car, that is a scratch. If you rub the car against a concrete wall, those are scrapes. Using 'scratches' when you mean 'scrapes' can make your description less accurate, especially in medical or technical contexts where the distinction matters.

Scrape vs. Scratch: A scrape is an abrasion over an area; a scratch is a thin line made by a sharp point.

Another common error is related to the verb conjugation. Because 'scrape' ends in an 'e', some learners forget to add the 's' for the third-person singular, or they might misspell it as 'scraps'. It is vital to remember that 'scraps' (without the 'e') is a completely different word meaning small pieces of something, like food scraps or scraps of paper. If you say 'He scraps the paint,' you are saying he turns the paint into small pieces, which might be true but isn't the standard way to describe the action of removing it. Always ensure that 'e' is present before the 's' when you are talking about the action of scraping.

Incorrect: He scraps the ice off the window. Correct: He scrapes the ice off the window.

Learners also struggle with the prepositional phrases associated with scrapes. For example, 'scraping by' and 'scraping through' are often used interchangeably, but they have different focuses. 'Scraping by' usually refers to financial survival—having just enough money to live. 'Scraping through' usually refers to passing a test or a challenge by a very small margin. If you say you 'scraped by' an exam, a native speaker will understand you, but 'scraped through' is the more natural idiom. Misusing these prepositions can make your English sound slightly 'off' or non-native.

The metal chair scrapes against the floor, leaving marks on the wood.

Scrape vs. Scrub: Scraping uses a hard edge to remove a layer; scrubbing uses a brush and back-and-forth motion to clean.

Finally, be careful with the intensity of the word. Scrapes is generally for minor things. If you describe a major car accident as 'a few scrapes', you are using understatement, which can be a form of humor or irony. However, if you are trying to be serious and accurate, using scrapes for a deep wound or a major financial crisis might make it seem like you don't understand the severity of the situation. Always match the word to the scale of the problem you are describing to avoid sounding insensitive or confused.

She scrapes the mud off her shoes before she walks into the clean kitchen.

Common Confusion: Don't confuse 'scrapes' with 'scrapes' (the plural of 'scrape') and 'scrapes' (the verb). They look the same but function differently.

He scrapes the last bit of jam out of the jar with a small spoon.

The child's scrapes were cleaned and bandaged by the school nurse.

When you want to vary your vocabulary, there are several alternatives to scrapes depending on the context. If you are talking about the physical injury, 'abrasions' is the medical term. It sounds more formal and professional. 'Grazes' is another common synonym, especially in British English, and is often used for the same types of minor skin injuries. If the injury is caused by something sliding across the skin, 'friction burns' might be a more descriptive term. Using these synonyms can help you tailor your language to the specific situation, whether you are writing a medical report or telling a story to a friend.

Injury Alternatives: Abrasion (formal), Graze (common), Friction burn (specific cause).

For the verb form, if the action is very light, you might use 'brushes' or 'touches'. If the action is much more forceful and involves a lot of noise, 'grates' or 'rasps' are excellent alternatives. 'Grates' is particularly good for describing the sound of metal on metal, while 'rasps' often describes a rough, textured sound. If the goal of the scraping is to clean something, 'scrubs' or 'scours' might be better choices. 'Scours' implies a very thorough and abrasive cleaning process, often using a chemical or a very rough pad. Choosing the right verb allows you to convey the intensity and the purpose of the action more clearly.

The rough stone grates against the metal, creating a shower of sparks.

In the context of 'getting into scrapes', synonyms include 'predicaments', 'difficulties', 'jams', or 'fixes'. 'Predicament' is more formal and suggests a complicated situation that is hard to solve. 'Jam' and 'fix' are more informal and often used in phrases like 'in a bit of a jam' or 'in a real fix'. These words capture the same sense of minor trouble but offer different levels of formality. If the trouble is caused by a person's own mischievous behavior, you might call them 'escapades' or 'antics'. These words suggest that the person was having fun, even if they ended up in trouble.

He found himself in a difficult predicament after losing his passport in a foreign country.

Trouble Alternatives: Predicament (formal), Jam (informal), Escapade (mischievous), Fix (informal).

Finally, in the technical sense of 'scraping' data, you might use 'extracting', 'harvesting', or 'mining'. 'Data mining' is a very common term that implies a deeper, more analytical process than just scraping. 'Harvesting' is often used for collecting email addresses or social media data. 'Extracting' is a general term that can be used in almost any technical context. By using these more specific terms, you can show a deeper understanding of the technology you are discussing. Each of these alternatives carries a slightly different connotation, from the mechanical 'extracting' to the more organic 'harvesting'.

The software extracts the relevant information from the database in seconds.

Technical Alternatives: Extract (general), Harvest (collection), Mine (analysis).

The artist scrapes away the top layer of wax to reveal the colors underneath.

Her knees were full of grazes after she tripped on the gravel path.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

Neutre

Informel

Child friendly

Argot

Le savais-tu ?

The term 'skyscraper' comes from the idea of a building so tall it 'scrapes' the sky, using the verb form of this word.

Guide de prononciation

UK /skreɪps/

US /skreɪps/

Single syllable; the stress is on the entire word.

Rime avec

Grapes Shapes Capes Tapes Escapes Landscapes Drapes Apes

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing it like 'scraps' (short 'a').
Omitting the 's' at the end.
Struggling with the 'skr' consonant cluster.
Adding an extra vowel sound between 'p' and 's'.
Pronouncing the 'e' (it is silent).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 3/5

Easy to recognize in context, but watch for the 'trouble' meaning.

Écriture 4/5

Spelling 'scrapes' vs 'scraps' is a common hurdle.

Expression orale 3/5

The 'skr' sound can be tricky for some learners.

Écoute 3/5

The final 's' can be hard to hear in fast speech.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

Cut Rub Hurt Clean Surface

Apprends ensuite

Abrasion Predicament Friction Grate Scour

Avancé

Striation Excoriation Substrate Attrition Discordant

Grammaire à connaître

Third-Person Singular -s

He scrapes (not 'He scrape').

Plural Nouns

Many scrapes (not 'Many scrape').

Phrasal Verbs with 'Scrape'

Scrape by, scrape together, scrape through.

Silent 'e' in 'Scrape'

The 'e' makes the 'a' long, but is not pronounced.

Prepositional Use

Scrapes against, scrapes off, scrapes from.

Exemples par niveau

He scrapes the plate after dinner.

Il gratte l'assiette après le dîner.

Third-person singular verb 'scrapes'.

The cat scrapes the door.

Le chat gratte la porte.

Subject-verb agreement: 'The cat' (it) + 'scrapes'.

I have two scrapes on my knee.

J'ai deux éraflures au genou.

Plural noun 'scrapes'.

She scrapes the mud off her shoes.

Elle gratte la boue de ses chaussures.

Verb + object + preposition 'off'.

The spoon scrapes the bowl.

La cuillère gratte le bol.

Simple present tense for a habitual or current action.

He has small scrapes on his hands.

Il a de petites éraflures sur les mains.

Adjective 'small' modifying the noun 'scrapes'.

The chair scrapes the floor.

La chaise gratte le sol.

Verb describing a physical action and sound.

Clean those scrapes with water.

Nettoyez ces éraflures avec de l'eau.

Imperative sentence using 'scrapes' as a noun.

He scrapes the ice from the car window every morning.

Il gratte la glace de la vitre de la voiture tous les matins.

Present simple for a daily routine.

The children often get scrapes when they play outside.

Les enfants se font souvent des éraflures quand ils jouent dehors.

Verb 'get' + noun 'scrapes' to describe an occurrence.

She scrapes the carrots before cooking them.

Elle gratte les carottes avant de les cuire.

Verb used in a sequence of actions.

The dog scrapes at the ground to hide its bone.

Le chien gratte le sol pour cacher son os.

Phrasal verb 'scrapes at'.

The boat scrapes against the rocks in the shallow water.

Le bateau frotte contre les rochers dans l'eau peu profonde.

Preposition 'against' used with the verb 'scrapes'.

He has a few nasty scrapes from his fall.

Il a quelques vilaines éraflures suite à sa chute.

Adjective 'nasty' used to describe the noun 'scrapes'.

The worker scrapes the old paint off the wall.

L'ouvrier gratte la vieille peinture du mur.

Definite article 'the' + noun 'worker' as the subject.

The sound of the metal as it scrapes the pavement is very loud.

Le bruit du métal qui frotte sur le trottoir est très fort.

Relative clause 'as it scrapes the pavement'.

He barely scrapes by on his small salary.

Il s'en sort à peine avec son petit salaire.

Idiomatic phrasal verb 'scrapes by'.

The student always gets into scrapes because of his curiosity.

L'étudiant s'attire toujours des ennuis à cause de sa curiosité.

Idiomatic noun use 'gets into scrapes'.

She scrapes together enough money to buy a new book.

Elle économise sou par sou pour acheter un nouveau livre.

Phrasal verb 'scrapes together' meaning to collect with difficulty.

The branch scrapes against the window during the storm.

La branche frotte contre la fenêtre pendant la tempête.

Verb describing a continuous action in a specific context.

He scrapes the bottom of the pan to get the last bit of sauce.

Il gratte le fond de la poêle pour avoir le dernier reste de sauce.

Direct object 'the bottom of the pan'.

The car has several scrapes on the side from the narrow garage.

La voiture a plusieurs éraflures sur le côté à cause du garage étroit.

Noun 'scrapes' used to describe property damage.

She scrapes through her exams every year.

Elle réussit ses examens de justesse chaque année.

Idiomatic phrasal verb 'scrapes through'.

The software scrapes data from various websites for the report.

Le logiciel extrait des données de divers sites web pour le rapport.

Modern technical use of the verb 'scrapes'.

The harsh noise as the shovel scrapes the concrete is annoying.

Le bruit strident de la pelle qui racle le béton est agaçant.

Gerund phrase as the subject of the sentence.

He has a knack for getting into scrapes but always manages to escape.

Il a le don de s'attirer des ennuis mais il arrive toujours à s'en sortir.

Noun 'scrapes' in a complex sentence structure.

The glacier scrapes the valley floor, leaving deep marks in the rock.

Le glacier racle le fond de la vallée, laissant de profondes marques dans la roche.

Scientific/geological use of the verb 'scrapes'.

She scrapes the burnt layer off the toast before serving it.

Elle gratte la couche brûlée du pain grillé avant de le servir.

Detailed description of a specific physical task.

The politician scrapes the bottom of the barrel for new supporters.

Le politicien racle les fonds de tiroir pour trouver de nouveaux partisans.

Idiomatic expression 'scrapes the bottom of the barrel'.

The violinist's bow scrapes the strings, creating a discordant sound.

L'archet du violoniste frotte les cordes, créant un son discordant.

Possessive noun + verb 'scrapes'.

He has several scrapes on his knuckles from working on the engine.

Il a plusieurs éraflures sur les articulations à force de travailler sur le moteur.

Prepositional phrase 'from working on the engine' explaining the cause.

The company scrapes information from social media to target ads.

L'entreprise extrait des informations des réseaux sociaux pour cibler les publicités.

Infinitive of purpose 'to target ads'.

The wind scrapes the skeletal branches against the house, keeping us awake.

Le vent fait grincer les branches décharnées contre la maison, nous empêchant de dormir.

Literary use of personification and descriptive adjectives.

His life was a series of scrapes and narrow misses in the city's underworld.

Sa vie était une suite d'embrouilles et de justesse dans les bas-fonds de la ville.

Metaphorical noun use in a narrative context.

The sculptor carefully scrapes the clay to define the figure's muscles.

Le sculpteur gratte soigneusement l'argile pour définir les muscles de la figure.

Verb used to describe a precise artistic process.

The economy is so poor that many families barely manage their daily scrapes.

L'économie est si mauvaise que de nombreuses familles gèrent à peine leurs galères quotidiennes.

Abstract use of 'scrapes' to mean daily struggles.

The ship scrapes the seabed as it enters the shallow harbor.

Le navire racle le fond marin en entrant dans le port peu profond.

Verb describing a large-scale physical event.

She scrapes the old varnish from the antique desk with great patience.

Elle gratte le vieux vernis du bureau antique avec une grande patience.

Complex object 'the old varnish from the antique desk'.

The sound of his voice scrapes like a rusty hinge.

Le son de sa voix grince comme une charnière rouillée.

Simile using the verb 'scrapes' for auditory description.

The bot scrapes thousands of prices per minute to find the best deals.

Le robot extrait des milliers de prix par minute pour trouver les meilleures offres.

Technical use with a focus on speed and volume.

The glacier's slow advance scrapes the very foundations of the mountain.

L'avancée lente du glacier racle les fondations mêmes de la montagne.

High-level metaphorical and physical description.

He has navigated many political scrapes, yet his reputation remains intact.

Il a traversé de nombreuses embrouilles politiques, et pourtant sa réputation reste intacte.

Abstract noun use in a professional/political context.

The precision tool scrapes the metal to a tolerance of a few microns.

L'outil de précision racle le métal à une tolérance de quelques microns.

Highly technical engineering context.

The narrative scrapes the surface of the protagonist's trauma without delving deeper.

Le récit effleure le traumatisme du protagoniste sans l'approfondir.

Idiomatic 'scrapes the surface' in literary criticism.

The cellist's bow scrapes the string with a deliberate, raw intensity.

L'archet du violoncelliste frotte la corde avec une intensité brute et délibérée.

Artistic description focusing on texture and sound.

The constant scrapes of city life had made him cynical and weary.

Les galères constantes de la vie citadine l'avaient rendu cynique et las.

Noun 'scrapes' representing the friction of urban existence.

The software scrapes the metadata to reconstruct the user's digital footprint.

Le logiciel extrait les métadonnées pour reconstruire l'empreinte numérique de l'utilisateur.

Advanced technical use involving cybersecurity concepts.

He scrapes a living as a freelance writer in an increasingly automated world.

Il gagne péniblement sa vie en tant qu'écrivain indépendant dans un monde de plus en plus automatisé.

Idiomatic 'scrapes a living' expressing financial struggle.

Collocations courantes

minor scrapes

scrapes by

scrapes together

scrapes against

nasty scrapes

scrapes through

web scrapes

scrapes off

constant scrapes

scrapes the bottom

Phrases Courantes

Scrapes and bruises

Scrapes the surface

Scrapes a living

Scrapes the barrel

Scrapes the ice

Scrapes the plate

Getting into scrapes

Scrapes against the wall

Scrapes together a meal

Scrapes the mud

Souvent confondu avec

scrapes vs Scraps

Scraps are small leftover pieces; scrapes are injuries or actions.

scrapes vs Scratches

Scratches are thin lines; scrapes are wider areas of rubbed-off surface.

scrapes vs Scrub

Scrubbing is a cleaning motion with a brush; scraping is with a hard edge.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Scrape the bottom of the barrel"

To be forced to use the last and worst of your resources.

Hiring him was really scraping the bottom of the barrel.

Informal

"Scrape through"

To succeed in something by the narrowest of margins.

He scraped through the final exam with a 50%.

Neutral

"Scrape by"

To manage to live with very little money.

They are just scraping by on his pension.

Neutral

"Scrape acquaintance with"

To manage to get to know someone, often with some effort or in an informal way.

He tried to scrape acquaintance with the famous author at the party.

Old-fashioned

"Scrape the surface"

To examine or understand only the most superficial aspects of a topic.

The documentary only scrapes the surface of the complex issue.

Neutral

"Get into a scrape"

To find oneself in a minor but embarrassing or difficult situation.

He's always getting into some kind of scrape at school.

Informal/British

"Scrape together"

To collect something (usually money) with difficulty.

We managed to scrape together enough for a deposit.

Neutral

"Bow and scrape"

To act in an excessively humble or subservient way.

I won't bow and scrape to the boss just to get a promotion.

Idiomatic/Negative

"Scrape the sky"

To be very tall (the origin of the word 'skyscraper').

The new towers seem to scrape the sky.

Literary

"Scrape the rust off"

To practice a skill that has become weak through lack of use.

I need to scrape the rust off my French before my trip to Paris.

Informal

Facile à confondre

scrapes vs Scraps

Similar spelling and sound.

Scraps refers to fragments or leftovers (e.g., food scraps). Scrapes refers to the action of rubbing or a minor injury.

He gives the food scraps to the dog, but he scrapes the plate first.

scrapes vs Scratches

Both involve surface damage.

A scratch is a narrow line made by a point. A scrape is a broad abrasion made by a surface.

The cat scratches the sofa, but the moving van scrapes the side of the house.

scrapes vs Graze

Both mean a minor skin injury.

Graze is more common in British English and often implies a lighter touch than a scrape.

She has a graze on her arm from the bush.

scrapes vs Grate

Both describe a harsh rubbing sound.

Grate often refers to reducing something to small shreds (like cheese) or a very irritating sound. Scrape is more about surface removal.

The sound of the metal grates on my nerves as he scrapes the rust off.

scrapes vs Scrub

Both are cleaning actions.

Scrubbing uses a brush and water in a circular or back-and-forth motion. Scraping uses a flat, hard tool to peel something off.

You need to scrub the floor, but first, scrape the gum off.

Structures de phrases

Subject + scrapes + object.

He scrapes the plate.

Subject + has + scrapes + on + body part.

She has scrapes on her knee.

Subject + scrapes + by + on + resource.

They scrape by on very little money.

The sound of + noun + as it + scrapes + noun.

The sound of the shovel as it scrapes the road.

Subject + is always getting into + scrapes.

The boy is always getting into scrapes.

Noun + scrapes + the surface of + abstract noun.

The report only scrapes the surface of the problem.

Subject + scrapes + together + object.

We scraped together some cash.

Subject + scrapes + through + challenge.

He scraped through the interview.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in daily speech, especially regarding chores and minor injuries.

Erreurs courantes

He scraps the ice. → He scrapes the ice.
Scraps means small pieces; scrapes is the action of rubbing.
I have a scratch on my knee from falling. → I have a scrape on my knee from falling.
Falling usually causes a wider scrape, not a thin scratch.
They are scraping through on a low budget. → They are scraping by on a low budget.
We 'scrape by' on money and 'scrape through' an exam.
The chair scrape the floor. → The chair scrapes the floor.
Third-person singular subjects need the -s ending.
He scraped acquaintance to the director. → He scraped acquaintance with the director.
The idiom uses the preposition 'with'.

Astuces

Use for Minor Things

Always use 'scrapes' for small injuries or minor troubles. For big problems, use 'wounds' or 'crises'.

The 'E' is Key

Remember the 'e' in 'scrapes'. Without it, you have 'scraps', which means leftovers.

Scrape Through

Use 'scrape through' when someone barely passes a test. It sounds very natural.

Sensory Writing

Use the verb 'scrapes' to describe annoying or harsh noises in your stories.

First Aid Context

When talking to a doctor, you can use 'abrasions', but with friends, 'scrapes' is better.

Data Extraction

In IT, 'scrapes' is a standard term for pulling data from a visual interface.

Kitchen Verb

Use it for cleaning bowls or pans: 'She scrapes the batter into the tin'.

Ice Removal

In cold climates, 'scraping the windshield' is a daily topic of conversation.

Mischief

Use 'getting into scrapes' to describe a character who is a bit of a troublemaker but still likable.

Agreement

Ensure your subject is singular (he/she/it) when using 'scrapes' as a verb.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'S-C-R-A-P-E-S' as 'Surface Contact Rubbing Always Produces Every Scrape'.

Association visuelle

Imagine a metal tool rubbing against a wooden table, or a child with a band-aid on their knee.

Word Web

Injury Friction Cleaning Trouble Sound Data Ice Knee

Défi

Try to use 'scrapes' as a verb and a noun in the same sentence about a winter morning.

Origine du mot

The word 'scrapes' comes from the Middle English 'scrapen', which originated from the Old Norse 'skrapa'. It is also related to the Old English 'scarpian'.

Sens originel : To scratch, erase, or carve with a sharp tool.

Germanic

Contexte culturel

Generally a safe, neutral word. Not offensive.

Commonly used in parenting and sports to downplay minor injuries.

The term 'Skyscraper' for tall buildings. The idiom 'Scraping the bottom of the barrel'. Classic literature where characters 'get into scrapes'.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

First Aid

Clean the scrapes
Minor scrapes
Apply a bandage
Skin scrapes

Cleaning/DIY

Scrapes the paint
Scrapes the ice
Metal scraper
Scrapes off the dirt

Finance

Scrapes by
Scrapes together money
Scrapes a living
Barely scrapes through

Social Situations

Gets into scrapes
A bit of a scrape
Narrow scrapes
Constant scrapes

Technology

Web scrapes
Data scrapes
Scrapes the site
Automated scrapes

Amorces de conversation

"Have you ever had any bad scrapes from playing sports?"

"How do you usually scrape the ice off your car in the winter?"

"Do you know anyone who is always getting into scrapes?"

"Have you ever had to scrape together money for something important?"

"What's the most annoying sound? Is it when a chair scrapes the floor?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe a time you got into a minor scrape and how you solved it.

Write about a childhood memory involving scrapes and bruises.

How do you feel when you hear the sound of metal as it scrapes against stone?

Discuss the ethics of companies that use web scrapes to collect personal data.

Write a story about a character who barely scrapes by but is very happy.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

It can be both! As a noun, it's the plural of 'scrape' (minor injuries or troubles). As a verb, it's the third-person singular form of 'to scrape' (he/she/it scrapes).

A scratch is a thin line, like from a needle. A scrape is a wider area where the surface has been rubbed away, like a skinned knee.

It means surviving with very little money or resources. For example, 'They are scraping by on a very small budget.'

Yes, in technology, 'web scraping' or 'data scrapes' refers to the automated process of collecting information from websites.

It's a bit old-fashioned or British, but still used to describe minor troubles or mischief in a lighthearted way.

It is spelled 'scrapes' (e.g., 'He scrapes the ice'). Don't forget the 'e'!

No, 'scrapes' usually refers to very minor injuries that only affect the surface of the skin.

A scraper is a tool used for scraping, like a paint scraper or an ice scraper for a car.

It means you are using the very last and worst options because you have nothing else left.

Usually, yes. The physical action of scraping typically produces a grating or scratching noise.