Many English learners use the terms itch and scratch incorrectly. The most common error is using the word itch in place of scratch. This is how to use the terms correctly.
to itch (verb) - is a physical sensation.
I have been wearing the same shirt for three days and now my skin itches.
I didn't take a shower this morning, so my scalp itches.
itchy (adj) - describes an object that makes you itch.
While playing in the beach, I got sand in my hair and it was itchy.
I don't like to wear that sweater because it's itchy.
itch (noun) - is a part of your body that itches.
I have an itch on my back. I should clean my sheets.
I have an itch on my toes. I think it's a mosquito bite.
to scratch (verb) - is the action that relieves your itch.
I scratched the mosquito bite too much, and now it's swollen.
There's an itch on my back, but I can't reach it. Would you scratch it for me?
Scratch Alternatives
scratchy (adj) - is usually used just to describe voices.
I was sick last weekend and my voice is still scratchy.
scratched (adj) - can be used to describe some objects.
I will not buy this record. It is scratched.
My friend borrowed my DVD, and now it's scratched.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Hand Actions
There are many things we use are hands for, but oftentimes we can't find the appropriate expression for them. This is a list of those actions:
to hold hands
"The lovers were side-by-side, holding hands, as they walked through the park.
"The mother and son held hands as they walked across the street."
to shake hands
"The businessmen all shook hands before starting the meeting."
"My greatest honor was shaking hands with the president."
to fold one's hands
"The congregation folded their hands and prayed during the church service."
"I was so desperate that I folded my hands and begged my boss not to fire me."
to hold out one's hands
"The begger held out his hands and asked the pedestrians for money."
"The porter held out his hand for a tip."
to wring one's hands
"While the were giving out awards, I was wringing my hands in anticipation."
trembling hands
"I was so nervous during the presentation that my hands were trembling."
to hold hands
"The lovers were side-by-side, holding hands, as they walked through the park.
"The mother and son held hands as they walked across the street."
to shake hands
"The businessmen all shook hands before starting the meeting."
"My greatest honor was shaking hands with the president."
to fold one's hands
"The congregation folded their hands and prayed during the church service."
"I was so desperate that I folded my hands and begged my boss not to fire me."
to hold out one's hands
"The begger held out his hands and asked the pedestrians for money."
"The porter held out his hand for a tip."
to wring one's hands
"While the were giving out awards, I was wringing my hands in anticipation."
trembling hands
"I was so nervous during the presentation that my hands were trembling."
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