# scrape through

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scrape-through
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

You use this when you just barely manage to succeed at something, like an exam. It means you pass, but only by a very small amount.

For teachers: To succeed in a task, competition, or examination by the narrowest of margins. It functions as an inseparable phrasal verb that can be used both transitively and intransitively.

## Examples

- He manages to scrape through his exams every year.
- Even though she didn't study much, she managed to scrape through the final interview and get the job.
- The coalition government only managed to scrape through the confidence motion after promising major policy shifts to the independent members.

## Pitfalls

- Not "She scraped the test through." but "She scraped through the test." — This phrasal verb is inseparable, meaning the object cannot be placed between the verb and the particle.

## Usage notes

- This is most often used with exams, elections, or difficult qualifying rounds in sports.
- Teaching tip: Contrast this with 'sail through' to help students visualize the difference between a difficult struggle and an easy success.

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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.