do not scratch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "do not scratch" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used as a warning or instruction, often in contexts where scratching could cause damage or irritation, such as with skin conditions or surfaces. Example: "If you have a rash, please do not scratch it to avoid further irritation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Health & Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Do not scratch if itching is intense.

The New York Times - Health

Lower public spending "Public spending is increasing and the coalition's cuts do not scratch the surface of Labour's deficit.

Independent

Do not scratch.

WikiHow

Do not scratch itchy patches.

WikiHow

Do not scratch or bite.

WikiHow

Do not scratch the glass.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Don't scratch your neck.

The New York Times - Style

Don't scratch your ear — even if it really itches.

The New York Times

Step 8: Don't scratch your nose with the paddle during the bidding.

The New York Times

(Actually, don't scratch your head when wearing her pyrite-and-brass bangle, $295, lest you risk a cerebral contusion).

The New York Times

In the immortal words of Adolf Meyer, where it doesn't itch don't scratch.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advising someone with a skin condition, follow the instruction "do not scratch" with specific remedies like applying a cold compress or using a topical ointment to manage the itch.

Common error

Avoid simply telling someone "do not scratch" without offering practical solutions for managing the itch. Suggesting alternative actions, such as applying pressure or using a distraction technique, can be more effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do not scratch" functions primarily as an imperative, giving a direct command or instruction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable phrase in English. Examples on Ludwig illustrate its use in preventing skin irritation and damage to surfaces.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

71%

News & Media

20%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "do not scratch" serves as a direct and common imperative, primarily used to advise against scratching in order to prevent negative outcomes like skin irritation, infections, or surface damage. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically sound and versatile. While it is found in neutral sources such as news, it appears more frequently in informal contexts like Wiki articles offering practical advice. When using the phrase, it's helpful to provide alternative solutions to manage the urge to scratch. The suggestion can be also used on glass or surfaces that are easily damaged.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

refrain from scratching

Replaces "do not" with the more formal "refrain from".

avoid scratching

Uses "avoid" instead of "do not" to express a similar caution.

resist the urge to scratch

Highlights the difficulty of not scratching and advises resisting it.

try not to scratch

Expresses the instruction as an attempt, acknowledging it might be hard.

do not rub

Suggests avoiding rubbing as well as scratching.

leave it alone

A more general instruction to not touch the affected area.

hands off

An informal way to tell someone not to touch something.

don't pick at it

Specifically warns against picking at scabs or blemishes.

keep your hands away

Emphasizes the physical act of keeping hands away from the area.

cease scratching

Uses more formal language to instruct stopping the action of scratching.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "do not scratch"?

You can use alternatives like "refrain from scratching", "avoid scratching", or "resist the urge to scratch" depending on the context.

Why is it important to "do not scratch"?

Scratching can worsen skin irritations, lead to infections, and cause scarring. It's crucial to "avoid scratching" to promote healing and prevent further damage.

How can I stop myself from "do not scratch"ing?

Try applying a cold compress, using a topical anti-itch cream, or keeping your hands occupied with another activity. Identifying the trigger for the itch can also help you "avoid scratching".

Is "do not scratch" only for skin conditions?

While commonly used for skin conditions, "do not scratch" can also apply to other situations where scratching could cause damage, such as "do not scratch" the glass or surfaces that are easily damaged. So it's a general imperative that can be applied to more contexts.