scrape it off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scrape it off" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the action of removing something from a surface, often in a physical context. Example: "If the paint is peeling, you should scrape it off before applying a new coat."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A Brobdingnagian hand will scrape it off.

The New Yorker

Traditional Chinese cooking they use a chopstick to scrape it off.

Cornell University

Frequently, the only way to remove an established biofilm is to mechanically scrape it off.

MIT Technology Review

I'm afraid to scrape it off for fear of scratching the marble.

The New York Times

The question is whether she has time to scrape it off.

The Guardian - Sport

If a little surface growth appears, simply scrape it off, it is not a problem.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Then they shake or scrape it off the plant by hand and pick out impurities like leaves and stems.

The Washington Post

Consider the caveman in "Stubble Trouble," whose beard grows nonstop, despite his heroic efforts to scrape it off.

The New York Times - Arts

The only way to remove it is to scrape it off, which is where dental hygienists come into their own.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Some cricketers of old allegedly would get their nails into it, use implements to really scrape it off and it would go very quickly.

Independent

Well, people do use high-pressure steam cleaners and then they scrape it off.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a cleaning process, consider the texture of the substance being removed and choose a tool that matches. For example, use a plastic putty knife for soap scum to "scrape it off" without scratching the surface.

Common error

Avoid using "scrape it off" when a milder action like wiping or brushing would suffice. Using a stronger term can make the action sound unnecessarily harsh or damaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scrape it off" functions as a phrasal verb. It describes the action of removing something from a surface by using a tool or applying force. As confirmed by Ludwig, this usage is grammatically sound and common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

42%

News & Media

58%

Science

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "scrape it off" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrasal verb. Ludwig's analysis and numerous examples confirm its validity and common usage across various contexts, especially in news/media and how-to guides. While generally neutral in tone, its alternatives range from gentler actions like wiping to more forceful ones like chipping. Understanding its nuances can enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remove it

This is a more general term for taking something away, lacking the specific action of scraping.

peel it off

Implies removing a layer or covering, suitable when something is like a skin or film.

chip it away

Suggests removing something little by little, often with a tool.

rub it off

Indicates removal through friction, often with a cloth or other object.

brush it off

Implies removal with a brush, suitable for loose or powdery substances.

wipe it away

Suggests removing something liquid or semi-liquid with a wiping motion.

clean it off

A broader term that includes scraping, but also other cleaning methods.

file it down

Indicates reducing the size or smoothing a surface by abrasion.

sand it off

Implies using sandpaper or a similar abrasive to remove a layer.

erase it

Metaphorical use, similar to removing a pencil mark; mostly used in non-physical context.

FAQs

How can I use "scrape it off" in a sentence?

You can use "scrape it off" to describe the action of removing something from a surface using a tool or by applying pressure. For example, "I had to "scrape it off" with a putty knife" or "He used a razor blade to "scrape it off" the window".

What are some alternatives to "scrape it off"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "remove it", "peel it off", or "wipe it away". The best choice depends on the specific action and surface involved.

Is "scrape it off" formal or informal?

"Scrape it off" is generally considered informal. In more formal settings, you might prefer alternatives like "remove it" or "detach it".

When is it appropriate to use "scrape it off"?

It's appropriate to use "scrape it off" when you want to emphasize the action of using a tool or applying pressure to remove something stuck or adhered to a surface. If you can "rub it off" or "clean it off", then "scrape" isn't necessary.