What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scratchy
Example
The wool sweater was scratchy and made my skin itch. [scratchy: adjective]
Example
The old vinyl record sounded scratchy and distorted. [scratchy: adjective]
Example
I have a scratchy throat and need to drink some water. [scratchy: adjective]
prickly
Example
The cactus had prickly spines that could hurt if touched. [prickly: adjective]
Example
He has a prickly personality and gets defensive easily. [prickly: adjective]
Example
I felt prickly all over when I walked into the crowded room. [prickly: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scratchy is more commonly used than prickly in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts. Prickly is more specific and often associated with certain plants or animals, making it less common in everyday conversation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scratchy and prickly?
Both scratchy and prickly are informal words that can be used in casual conversations. However, scratchy can also be used in more formal contexts, such as medical or scientific writing, while prickly is less versatile and more commonly used in informal settings.
