scrape off

USAGE SUMMARY

"scrape off" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is most commonly used to describe the process of removing or taking off a thin layer of something from a surface. Example: I had to scrape off the old paint before I could apply a fresh coat.

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Scrape off skin.

The New York Times - Food

Scrape off and discard.

The New York Times - Magazine

O.K., scrape off your lint.

The New York Times

Pull out or scrape off hair without damaging skin.

The New York Times

Next day, scrape off and reserve the seasonings.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The lysis solution was poured on the slide to scrape off the cytological stained sample.

BMC Cancer

A scalpel blade was then used to gently scrape off the ECs.

Cell Communication and Signaling

We used a fine metal file to scrape off particles of bone cement from a retrieved total knee arthroplasty.

Bone and Joint Research

Scrape off deposits.

WikiHow

Scrape off excess resin.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The "scrape-off module" resorts to a radial model for the limiters.

Journal of Computational Physics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "scrape off", consider the tool or method implied. Be specific if the tool influences the meaning (e.g., "scrape off with a razor blade").

Common error

Avoid using "scrape off" when a more precise verb like "peel", "rub", or "file" would better describe the action. "Scrape off" is best when the removal involves a scraping motion against a surface.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "scrape off" primarily functions as a dynamic verb, indicating an action performed on an object. It describes the process of removing material from a surface by applying a scraping motion as Ludwig examples show.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

26%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "scrape off" is a very common and grammatically sound way to describe the action of removing material from a surface using a scraping motion. Ludwig's analysis shows its prevalent use across diverse contexts, especially in how-to guides (Wiki) and news media. While the phrase is generally informal, it is suitable for a broad audience. Pay attention when using the phrase to choose a more precise verb if needed, as many alternatives exists that capture better what you want to express.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remove by scraping

Replaces the phrasal verb with a more descriptive verb phrase.

chip away

Implies a gradual removal, often of something stuck or hardened.

peel away

Suggests removing a layer or film from a surface.

file off

Specifically refers to removal using a file.

rub off

Suggests removal by rubbing or friction.

buff off

Implies polishing while removing a substance.

excise

A more formal term for removing something surgically or precisely.

erase

Suggests removing something completely, often a mark or trace.

abrade

Implies wearing away or rubbing off a surface.

clean off

Broader term suggesting general cleaning or removal of dirt/debris.

FAQs

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

You can use "scrape off" to describe removing a substance from a surface using a tool or implement, such as "I need to scrape off the ice from my windshield" or "Scrape off the excess paint before it dries completely".

What is a good alternative to "scrape off"?

Depending on the context, you might use "remove by scraping", "chip away", or "peel away" as alternatives to "scrape off".

Is it ever incorrect to use "scrape off"?

While grammatically correct, "scrape off" might not be the most precise choice if a different verb more accurately captures the removal method, such as using "wipe" instead of "scrape off" for a light surface cleaning.

What tools are commonly associated with "scrape off"?

The action of "scrape off" typically involves tools like knives, blades, scrapers, or even fingers, depending on the material being removed and the surface it's adhered to. If you want to specify the tool being used, consider rephrasing the sentence.