scratch-race
Definition
Noun: A "scratch-race" is a race in which all competitors start from the same point without any handicap or advantage. The term is most commonly used in cycling, running, or other sports where participants begin on equal terms.
Usage Examples
- (A race without any time or distance allowance.)
- (Emphasises equal starting conditions.)
- (A race without handicaps.)
Advanced Usage
- "scratch-race format": a competition structure where all participants begin at the same line.
- The coach prefers the scratch-race format because it rewards pure athletic ability. (A format without advantages for weaker competitors.)
Variants and Related Words
Scratch (adj): starting from the same line without handicap.
- He is a scratch golfer. (A golfer with a handicap of zero.)
Handicap race (n): the opposite of a scratch-race — a race where slower competitors are given an advantage.
- The horse race was a handicap race, with heavier weights for faster horses. (A race with adjusted conditions.)
Synonyms
- Even race: a race where all runners have equal starting conditions.
- Level race: a competition without handicaps.
Phrasal Verbs
- Scratch from: to withdraw from a race or competition.
- She had to scratch from the scratch-race due to an injury. (She withdrew from the event.)
Related Idioms
- Start from scratch: to begin from the very beginning, with no advantage.
- After the accident, the team had to start from scratch in the scratch-race. (They had no prior advantage or preparation.)
Notes for Language Learners
- The word "scratch-race" is a compound noun, so it is always written with a hyphen. It should not be confused with "scratch race" (two separate words), which is a less common variant.
- In British English, "scratch-race" is particularly common in cycling and athletics contexts. In American English, "scratch race" (without hyphen) is sometimes used, but the hyphenated form is standard in formal sports terminology.