To begin something completely anew, without using any existing work or foundation, starting with nothing.
This phrase originates from 18th-century sporting events, particularly boxing and racing, where competitors would start from a line scratched into the ground. In handicap races, superior competitors had to start from this 'scratch' line while others got head starts, making 'from scratch' synonymous with starting without advantages.
The culinary world has adopted this phrase so thoroughly that 'from scratch cooking' has become a mark of authenticity and skill. Interestingly, the phrase has evolved to suggest not just starting over, but starting with superior quality - scratch-made items are often considered better than their pre-made counterparts.
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