What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scratch
Example
The cat scratched the sofa with its claws. [scratch: verb]
Example
I have a scratch on my arm from playing outside. [scratch: noun]
Example
Can you scratch my back, please? [scratch: verb]
nick
Example
He accidentally nicked his finger while chopping vegetables. [nick: verb]
Example
There's a nick on the rim of this glass. [nick: noun]
Example
The barber nicked his ear while shaving. [nick: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scratch is more commonly used than nick in everyday language. Scratch is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while nick is more specific and less commonly used.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between scratch and nick?
Both scratch and nick are informal words that can be used in casual conversations. However, nick may be considered slightly more formal due to its specificity and less common usage.
