"Without a scratch" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a situation or condition in which a person or object remains completely unharmed or undamaged, often in the face of adversity or significant challenges. The phrase implies that there are no visible marks, injuries, or evidence of harm present on the subject being referred to.
When this expression is applied to a person, it suggests that they have successfully navigated or overcome a potentially dangerous or risky situation with no physical harm suffered. For example, if someone engages in a hazardous activity such as skydiving or bungee jumping and lands safely, they can be said to have landed "without a scratch," indicating that they are totally unharmed.
Similarly, when used to describe an object or possession, it signifies that it has experienced no damage, scratches, or deterioration while enduring demanding conditions or undergoing a challenging journey. For instance, if a delicate piece of glassware is transported over a long distance and arrives at its destination in perfect condition, it can be said to have arrived "without a scratch."
Therefore, "without a scratch" conveys the idea of emerging from a potentially harmful or unfavourable circumstance completely unscathed, unharmed, and intact. It emphasizes the absence of any visible consequences or damage that could be expected from such a situation.
