Scrub off
phrasal verb
To clean something by rubbing hard with a rough material.
You will need to scrub off the dirt from your shoes.

Often appears as...
- scrub off the dirt
- scrub off the stain
phrasal verb
To remove or get rid of something.
She was trying to scrub off the bad memories from her mind.

Often appears as...
- scrub off the memories
- scrub off the negative thoughts
Usage tips
Disapproving
phrasal verb
To clean something by rubbing hard with a rough material.
You will need to scrub off the dirt from your shoes.

Often appears as...
- scrub off the dirt
- scrub off the stain
phrasal verb
To remove or get rid of something.
She was trying to scrub off the bad memories from her mind.

Often appears as...
- scrub off the memories
- scrub off the negative thoughts
Usage tips
Disapproving
Definition 1 of 2

Physical Action
Scrub off involves physical effort to remove something from a surface.

I had to scrub off the gum stuck to the table.
Use Rough Tools
Use a brush or sponge for effective scrubbing.

To scrub off the grime, use a steel wool pad.
Intensity Required
The phrase often suggests that simple washing isn't enough.

I have to scrub off the stains; soap alone won't do.
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