Up to scratch

usgb
adjective

Good enough, up to a satisfactory standard or quality.

The quality of his work is not up to scratch.
Visual representation of "up to scratch" - Good enough, up to a satisfactory standard or quality.

Often appears as...

  • not up to scratch
  • up to scratch with

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "up to scratch"
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Expectation Level

Use when a certain quality or standard is expected, especially in performance or ability.

Illustration for Expectation Level
His recent essay wasn't up to scratch compared to his usual work.
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Negative Feedback

Commonly used to point out something that doesn't meet expected standards.

Illustration for Negative Feedback
Your cleaning job isn't up to scratch; please redo it.
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Competence

Emphasizes the adequacy of someone's skills for a task or role.

Illustration for Competence
She needs more training to get her skills up to scratch.
Visual representation of the word "Up to scratch"

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