itchy

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "itchy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an uncomfortable feeling that is usually caused by an irritation of the skin. Example: My shirt is so itchy, I can't wait to take it off!.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Aside from the itchy polyester outfit, I have to admit I rather enjoyed the experience.

The Guardian - Opinion

That idea of an "indie" band using the tropes and techniques of R&B, the stuttering rhythms and itchy glitchiness of 2step, in tandem with a proper pop song bright enough to light up the charts – you'd think bands would have been queuing up to do that.

The Guardian - Music

Regular eye drops can soothe itchy eyes but are difficult to apply even with teenagers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A runny nose that feels blocked up, itchy eyes, sneezing and headaches are symptoms that two in 10 people have for at least one season a year.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He entered No 10 wearing the straw boater of jaunty comical arrogance; he recently tried the itchy woollen hat of humble public servitude; and now he wanders between micro-managed photo-opportunities – a milk-guzzling lamb, a paint-smeared child – without any hat at all, bareheaded in the storms.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I tend to get itchy feet after 18 months so there must be something special about Football Focus – we're here today and I've still got butterflies in my stomach".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

As a result, local councils can get official permission to put together better packages of bribes to bring in foreign investors, or to hold on to itchy existing ones.

The Economist

The expectation when a child that she would behave, and not try to pull down her itchy stockings or burst into tears.

The Economist

He is said to have been getting itchy feet at Microsoft and looking for a chief executive's job.

The Economist

They can drink seven times their own weight in blood in a night, leaving itchy welts on the victim's skin and blood spots on his sheets as they do so.

The Economist

But some think that police trigger-fingers are already itchy enough.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing skin conditions, use "itchy" to convey the sensation that prompts scratching. For more formal or medical contexts, consider using "pruritic".

Common error

Avoid overusing "itchy" to describe impatience or restlessness in situations where a literal physical sensation is not intended. While acceptable in some informal contexts like "itchy feet", clearer alternatives like "restless" or "eager" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

Itchy primarily functions as an adjective, describing something that causes or has an itch. It modifies nouns to indicate a sensation that provokes scratching or irritation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English. For example, 'itchy eyes' or 'an itchy rash'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "itchy" is a common adjective used to describe something that causes or has an itch. Ludwig AI confirms it's a correct and usable word in English. It’s most frequently found in news and media, encyclopedia entries and science-related content, with the primary function of describing a physical sensation of discomfort. While grammatically sound, overuse in figurative contexts should be avoided, opting for clearer alternatives like "restless". Related terms include "pruritic" and "irritated". Be mindful when using "itchy" in formal settings, as more precise medical terms might be preferred.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pruritic

This is a more formal and medical term for "itchy".

irritated

Describes a state of discomfort and inflammation, similar to the feeling of an itch.

tingling

Refers to a prickling or slightly "itchy" sensation often associated with nerve stimulation.

crawling

Describes the sensation of insects crawling on the skin, often causing an "itchy" feeling.

restless

Describes a feeling of unease or inability to stay still, which can be associated with "itchy" skin.

uncomfortable

Describes a general feeling of physical unease that can include an "itchy" sensation.

scratchy

This describes a rough texture that causes an "itchy" sensation upon contact with the skin.

ticklish

Describes a sensation that prompts laughter or squirming, similar to a mild "itchy" feeling.

antsy

Describes a state of restlessness and impatience, sometimes associated with a physical "itchy" sensation.

fidgety

Describes a tendency to move restlessly, similar to the urge to scratch an "itchy" area.

FAQs

How can I use "itchy" in a sentence?

"Itchy" is typically used as an adjective to describe something that causes an itch. For example, "This sweater is so "itchy" that I can't wear it" or "I have an "itchy" rash on my arm".

What are some synonyms for "itchy"?

Depending on the context, synonyms for "itchy" include "pruritic" (a medical term), "irritated", "scratchy", or "tingling".

What causes "itchy" skin?

"Itchy" skin can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, insect bites, skin conditions like eczema, or dry skin.

When should I see a doctor for "itchy" skin?

If your "itchy" skin is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as a rash, fever, or swelling, it's important to consult a doctor.