# scratch that

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/scratch-that
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To disregard, omit, or ignore the previous statement.

## Examples

- I want coffee, scratch that, I want tea.
- We should meet at noon, scratch that, let's make it two o'clock instead.
- He began to explain his complex theory, but then, deciding it was too confusing, he said, scratch that, and started over with a much simpler example.

## Origin

Derived from the verb scratch, in the specific sense of crossing out or striking through a written record. The term draws upon the physical act of marking a line through a mistake to negate its presence.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.