scrambling through

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scrambling through" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the action of searching or moving quickly and in a disorganized manner through something, such as a pile of items or a set of information. Example: "She was scrambling through her bag, looking for her keys before she missed the bus."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

He saw others scrambling through it onto the highway.

The New York Times

5 Think about useful climbers on trellises or even scrambling through trees.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They went wild, scrambling through styles, ideas and forms with a kind of raucous, guerrilla energy.

The New York Times - Arts

Follow the link to a fun, one-minute video of a fat mouse scrambling through a tiny hole.

Cornell University

Mr. Medeski staked out the multiple personalities he'd be scrambling through the night, sometimes simultaneously executing one with each hand.

The New York Times - Arts

Kunis, scrambling through the city, gives the ultimate in desperate, bottom-dog performances — those saucer eyes never stop pleading.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

I scramble through my notes.

The Guardian - Film

He scrambles through the brush to get a better look.

The New York Times

He scrambled through the troubadour of song bit.

The Guardian - Music

These children scramble through the door and pile onto the ice.

The New York Times

Nothing will essentially change even if England scramble through to next year's finals in Brazil.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "scrambling through", consider the connotation of urgency and slight disorder. This suggests that the subject is moving or searching quickly, possibly under pressure or in a somewhat uncontrolled manner.

Common error

Avoid using "scrambling through" in formal documents or professional communications where a more composed tone is expected. Opt for phrases like "carefully reviewing" or "thoroughly examining" to maintain a professional demeanor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scrambling through" functions as a compound verb, indicating the action of moving or searching in a hurried, often disorganized manner. It often describes physical movement or a frantic search as Ludwig AI states. This construction emphasizes both the act of scrambling and the act of passing through something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "scrambling through" is a common and generally accepted way to describe moving or searching quickly and somewhat frantically. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is most frequently used in news and media contexts, conveying a sense of urgency or disarray. While versatile, it's best to avoid using "scrambling through" in formal contexts where a more composed tone is required. Alternatives such as "rummaging through", "sifting through", or "navigating through" may be more appropriate depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Remembering the context and desired tone will allow for the most effective and accurate use of this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rummaging through

Focuses more on disorganized searching, typically among physical items.

sifting through

Implies a more careful and selective search, often separating desired elements from unwanted ones.

navigating through

Suggests a more deliberate and controlled movement through a space or system.

wading through

Implies moving through something dense or difficult, often with liquid or other obstacles.

combing through

Highlights a thorough and systematic search, leaving no area unexamined.

plowing through

Emphasizes the effort and resistance involved in moving through something difficult.

perusing through

Indicates a casual and unhurried reading or examination.

foraging through

Implies searching for something, often food or resources, in a wild or natural environment.

filtering through

Suggests a process of separating or selecting elements as they pass through a medium.

scrutinizing through

Focuses on a very careful and detailed examination to identify flaws or inconsistencies.

FAQs

How can I use "scrambling through" in a sentence?

You can use "scrambling through" to describe someone moving quickly and perhaps clumsily through something, like "He was "scrambling through" the undergrowth" or searching frantically, as in "She was "scrambling through" her notes before the presentation".

What are some alternatives to "scrambling through"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "rummaging through", "sifting through", or "navigating through". Choose the one that best fits the nuance you want to convey.

Is "scrambling through" appropriate for formal writing?

While "scrambling through" is widely understood, it can sound informal or frantic. In formal writing, consider more neutral alternatives like "examining" or "reviewing".

What's the difference between "scrambling through" and "searching through"?

"Searching through" is a general term for looking for something. "Scrambling through" implies a more hurried, possibly disorganized, and somewhat desperate search. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the speed and potential difficulty of the search.