(yǎng) - itch — an irritating sensation on the skin & also used metaphorically for a restless desire or

Tone 3

yǎng | 11 strokes | radical:

· yǎng

itch — an irritating sensation on the skin that provokes the desire to scratch;

also used metaphorically for a restless desire or urge.

itch — an irritating sensation on the skinalso used metaphorically for a restless desire or

Usage highlights

itchyto itchitchy skinitchy throatitchy handsscratch an itch

Synonyms

  • to scratch an itch; pruritus

Antonyms

  • numbness (opposite sensation)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • My mosquito bite is very itchy (很痒).
  • This wool sweater makes me itch (发痒).
  • He has an itch to travel (心痒难耐).
  • The wound is healing and starting to itch (伤口发痒).

Collocations

  • itchy(痒的)
  • to itch(发痒)
  • itchy skin(皮肤痒)
  • itchy throat(喉咙痒)
  • itchy hands(手痒)
  • scratch an itch(止痒)

Idioms

  • Itchy palms, indicating a desire to do something(手痒)
  • An itch that cannot be scratched(隔靴搔痒)
  • To scratch where it itches(搔到痒处)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • In traditional Chinese medicine, itching can be associated with wind, dampness, or heat in the body.
  • The metaphorical use of 'itch' for a restless desire is common, e.g., '手痒' for wanting to try something.

FAQ