scratch

To scratch something is to scrape it or rub it. An itch is a feeling of irritation on the skin, often one that makes you want to scratch it. The word itch can also be used as a verb meaning to have this sensation (as in My leg itches) or to cause to itch (as in The tag on my shirt keeps itching me).

Itch also has some more figurative meanings as both a noun and a verb.

The reason you looked this up, though, is because itch is sometimes informally used to mean the same thing as scratch, as in Try not to itch your mosquito bites—it will only make them itchier! Language purists are often itching to clarify that you scratch an itch, but this verb use of itch is quite common.

As a noun, the word scratch means something different—a cut or scrape, typically a minor one caused by something having scratched the skin, as in I got a few scratches from the thornbush. 

Here’s an example of scratch and itch used correctly in the same sentence.

Example: I know your rash itches, but don’t scratch your itch so hard—you’ll leave a scratch on your arm!

Want to learn more? Read the full breakdown of the difference between scratch and itch.

Should scratch or itch be used in the following sentence?

This new lotion makes me _____—I hope I’m not allergic to it.