Up to scratch

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Meaning

Meeting a decent standard or readiness, good enough to pass muster.

Origin

From 18th-century Britain, tied to boxing; 'scratch' was a line fighters toed, unfit ones fell short, slang by 1778 for fit. A 1820 'Times' uses it for a horse's form.

Variants

  • To scratch
  • Up the scratch

Usage Examples

  • Is this cake up to scratch for the party?
  • He's barely up to scratch; needs practice.
  • Her work's up to scratch; solid effort.

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