"From scratch" is widely used to describe creating something from the beginning, using basic ingredients or elements, without any pre-made or readymade components. It's commonly used in cooking to indicate a dish made from raw, basic ingredients rather than using something pre-prepared. However, the phrase can apply to various contexts, like building a project, starting a business, or developing software, implying that the process begins at the most fundamental level.
In short:
When someone says they are doing something "from scratch," they mean they are starting from the very beginning, using only the most basic materials or elements. It’s about building up from nothing rather than using parts that are already made. For instance, you might bake a cake "from scratch" using flour, sugar, and eggs instead of a boxed mix or build a business "from scratch" without any initial capital or investors.
Let's dig into its core meanings and usage:
The phrase has its origins in the sporting world of the 18th century, particularly in foot racing. The term was used to describe the starting point of a race, where a line was literally "scratched" into the ground. Runners who started "from scratch" received no handicap, meaning they began the race from the original starting line without any advantage.
This concept of starting from an initial point without any pre-existing advantages or materials was later adopted into general language. It has since evolved to mean starting from the very beginning or the basics without using any pre-prepared or pre-existing components.
To help you understand when to use "from scratch," here are some examples from different situations:
The concept of starting "from scratch" is often depicted in pop culture, symbolizing hard work and originality.
Let's look at some examples:
Here are some alternative phrases that express the same idea as "from scratch":
"From scratch" means creating something from the very beginning, using basic or fundamental elements, without any pre-existing or pre-made components.
You can use it to describe the process of starting something from the beginning. For example: "She made the entire meal from scratch," or "They built the software system from scratch.
Making something from scratch often means more control over the process and can result in a more authentic or tailored product, but it usually requires more time and effort.
Yes, "from scratch" can apply to digital and creative projects like writing a novel, coding a program, or creating art, indicating starting from the basics without pre-existing templates or elements.
People cook from scratch to have better control over the ingredients for health, taste, or dietary reasons, and sometimes for the enjoyment and satisfaction of cooking.
Starting a business from scratch requires a range of skills including planning, financial management, marketing, and perseverance, along with expertise in the business's specific field.
Learning a language from scratch can be challenging as it involves understanding basic grammar, vocabulary, and often a new alphabet or writing system, but it can be rewarding.
When someone is self-taught, they often start from scratch, learning through resources like books, online courses, or trial and error, without formal instruction.
Remodeling a house from scratch usually means a complete overhaul, starting with the basic structure and redesigning or rebuilding most or all parts of the house.
Creating something from scratch can bring a sense of accomplishment, allows for full customization, and often results in a unique, personal product or outcome.
The phrase "from scratch" is a valuable concept for understanding and appreciating the process of creating or building something from the basic level. It's applicable in various contexts, from cooking to technology, and emphasizes the effort and authenticity in the creation process.
Here's a quick recap:
