Other Ways to Say “From Scratch”

The phrase “from scratch” means to start something from the very beginning, without using anything that has been prepared or preexisting. Whether you’re writing, cooking, coding, or building, there are many alternative expressions that convey this same idea.

Common Synonyms and Alternatives

• From the ground up – Emphasizes building or developing something entirely anew.
• From the beginning – A general way to express starting at the very start.
• From square one – Often used when restarting a process after failure.
• From zero – Highlights starting with absolutely nothing.
• From the bottom up – Focuses on foundational creation, often used in business or architecture.
• From base level – Suggests a technical or structural starting point.
• From the outset – Means from the very start of a process or journey.
• Built entirely – Often used when emphasizing the completeness of creation.
• Self-made – Usually refers to personal or entrepreneurial development without assistance.
• Original creation – Implies something uniquely created without copying or templates.

Context-Based Examples

Original Phrase	Alternative Phrase	Best Use Case
We built the app from scratch.	We built the app from the ground up.	Tech / Product Development
She cooked the meal from scratch.	She cooked the meal from the beginning.	Culinary / Cooking
They started the business from scratch.	They started the business from square one.	Entrepreneurship
He learned to code from scratch.	He learned to code from zero.	Education / Skills

Conclusion

Using alternatives to “from scratch” can help add variety and precision to your writing or speech. Whether you’re emphasizing originality, a fresh start, or foundational work, choosing the right synonym can elevate your expression and tailor it to the right audience or context.

FAQ

What does “from scratch” mean?

“From scratch” means to begin something without any prior preparation, materials, or advantage—completely from the beginning.

Is “from scratch” formal or informal?

It is generally informal, though widely accepted in both casual and professional settings. Alternatives like “from the ground up” can be more formal.

Can “from scratch” be used in business writing?

Yes, especially when describing new ventures, projects, or development processes. However, alternatives like “from the ground up” may be preferred for a more polished tone.