verb
kratzen
scratch
Mit Fingernägeln oder einem Gegenstand über eine Oberfläche fahren, sodass kleine Spuren oder ein raues Geräusch entstehen.
The German word "kratzen" is a verb that means "to scratch" or "to scrape".
- It stems from the root verb "krat-", which conveys the action of scraping or rubbing a surface.
- "kratzen" can also describe a feeling of irritation on the skin (e.g., a sore throat that itches or itchy skin).
Similar words:
- "schaben" – to scrape (usually harder or more deliberate scraping)
- "reizen" – to irritate (more about causing sensation, not the physical scratch)
- "kribbeln" – to tingle (more of a prickling sensation)
Differences:
- "kratzen" generally implies a physical action of rubbing/scratching.
- "schaben" usually involves removing material through scraping and is more forceful.
- "reizen" emphasizes causing irritation but not necessarily by scratching.
- "kribbeln" describes a sensation rather than an action.
In short, "kratzen" focuses on the act of scratching or causing irritation.
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Examples
Warum kratzt du ständig an deinem Arm?verb
Why do you keep scratching your arm?
Die Kinder kratzten den alten Aufkleber von der Tür.verb
The children scratched the old sticker off the door.
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