The phrase "scrapes together" is spelled with "scr" at the beginning because it comes from the word "scrape". The "a" in "scrapes" is pronounced as /eɪ/ due to the silent "e" at the end, while "together" is spelled phonetically as /təˈɡɛðər/. The pronunciation of this phrase is typically stressed on the first syllable, "scrapes", and the second word, "together", is pronounced with a schwa sound in which the vowel is not stressed. Overall, "scrapes together" refers to the act of gathering something with great effort or difficulty.
Scrapes together is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of gathering or collecting a small or insufficient amount of something, usually money or resources, with a lot of effort or difficulty. It conveys the idea of barely managing to accumulate the required quantity, often implying that it is not an easy task.
The term "scrapes" in this context refers to the act of retrieving or obtaining something from multiple or unexpected sources, frequently in meager amounts. This implies having to make the most out of limited options or resorting to unconventional methods. In this sense, it suggests a sense of hustle or determination in trying to gather enough to meet a particular need.
The verb "together" in this expression emphasizes the conglomeration of these various sources or efforts into one sum or pool. It implies that the person must bring together or combine whatever small amounts they can find or acquire in order to achieve the desired outcome.
Overall, "scrapes together" implies a challenging or arduous process of accumulating a minimal amount, underscoring the idea that it is obtained through perseverance, resourcefulness, and creativity. It is often used to describe situations where individuals are struggling financially, trying to gather enough money or resources to make ends meet or achieve a specific goal. It carries connotations of overcoming obstacles, working diligently, and making do with limited means.
The word "scrapes together" is a phrase rather than a single word, so it does not have its own independent etymology. However, the individual words "scrapes" and "together" do have their own respective origins.
- "Scrapes" comes from the verb "to scrape", which originally derives from the Old Norse word "skrapa", meaning "scratch or scrape". Over time, it evolved into the Middle English word "scrapen" with the same meaning.
- "Together" has its roots in the Old English word "tōgædere", which was a combination of "tō" (to, into) and "gædere" (together). Eventually, "tōgædere" evolved into "together" in Modern English.