Scrap or Scrape: Which Is Correct?
Updated · Which One Is Correct editorial team
Quick answer: Both scrap and scrape are correct, but they mean different things. Scrap refers to discarded materials or a fight, while scrape describes the action of rubbing against a rough surface. Use the right one based on context.
The Short Answer
Scrap is correct when discussing waste materials, small pieces, or a physical altercation. Scrape is the right choice when describing the action of rubbing or scratching a surface.
People confuse these words because they sound identical in most English dialects. The distinction lies entirely in their definitions, not in how they are spoken, leading to frequent typos in writing.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Form | Status | Use it when |
|---|---|---|
| Scrap | Correct | Referring to waste, junk, or a short fight |
| Scrape | Correct | Describing rubbing, scratching, or collecting slowly |
| Scrapped | Past Tense | Talking about discarded items or cancelled projects |
| Scraped | Past Tense | Discussing a surface that was rubbed or injured |
Correct Example Sentences
- I need to take this old car to the scrap yard.
- Be careful not to scrape your knee on the pavement.
- We saved every scrap of evidence for the trial.
- He scraped the burnt bits off the bottom of the pan.
- The construction site was full of scrap metal and wood.
- She scraped her elbow while climbing the steep rock face.
- Let us scrap the old plan and start fresh with a new idea.
- Make sure to scrape the ice off your windshield before driving.
- The dog ate every scrap of food from the bowl.
- I scraped together enough money to buy the gift.
Common Mistakes and Fixes
- I scraped the leftover paper into the recycling bin.
- I scrapped the leftover paper into the recycling bin.
- He took a big scrap on his elbow.
- He took a big scrape on his elbow.
- We need to scrap the dirt from the floor.
- We need to scrape the dirt from the floor.
- The artist used scrap metal to create the sculpture.
- The artist used scrap metal to create the sculpture.
- She scraped the old movie from the schedule.
- She scrapped the old movie from the schedule.
- Be careful you do not scrap your paint job.
- Be careful you do not scrape your paint job.
A Quick Test You Can Use
Ask yourself if the word relates to waste or conflict. If it involves throwing things away or a fight, use scrap. If the action involves rubbing, scratching, or gathering something bit by bit, choose scrape.
Related Word Pairs
- Principal vs Principle
- Principal is a person; principle is a rule or belief.
- Effect vs Affect
- Effect is usually a noun; affect is usually a verb.
- Loose vs Lose
- Loose means not tight; lose means to misplace.
- Then vs Than
- Then is about time; than is for comparison.
- Their vs There
- Their shows possession; there indicates a place.
More Example Sentences
- The mechanic sold the engine block to the local scrap dealer.
- She had to scrape the mud off her boots before entering the house.
- We decided to scrap the renovation project due to budget constraints.
- He used a spatula to scrape the batter into the mixing bowl.
- Every scrap of information was crucial to solving the mystery.
- The wind will scrape the paint off the exterior walls over time.
- Let us scrap the current design and try a simpler approach.
- I scraped my finger on the rough edge of the cardboard box.
- The artist collected scrap wire to weave into intricate patterns.
- You must scrape the bottom of the jar to get the last bit of jam.
Quick Practice
The old sofa was nothing but at this point.
scrap
Please the frost from the windows before we leave.
scrape
We need to the deadline and finish early.
scrap
He managed to together enough change for the bus fare.
scrape
The factory recycles every of metal it can find.
scrap
Be careful not to your car on the curb while parking.
scrape
Frequently Asked Questions
Can scrap be used as a verb?
Yes, you can scrap a project or an old item. It means to discard, cancel, or get rid of something completely because it is no longer useful or needed.
Is scrape always a physical action?
Mostly yes, but it can be metaphorical. You might scrape by financially, meaning you barely manage to survive. It implies gathering resources with great difficulty and little to spare.
What is the difference in spelling rules?
There is no spelling rule connecting them. They are homophones with different origins. Memorize that scrap deals with waste and fights, while scrape deals with surfaces and rubbing actions.
Which word is used in cooking?
Scrape is common in cooking. You use a spatula to scrape batter from a bowl or scrape burnt food from a pan. Scrap is not used in this context unless discussing food waste.
