Word: scraps and wholes

Associations

The phrase "scraps and wholes" refers to the contrast between small leftover pieces (scraps) and entire items (wholes). It can refer to physical objects, ideas, or even experiences. It often highlights the distinction between fragments and completeness.

• In cooking, you might have scraps of vegetables left after preparing a meal, while the wholes refer to the full dish.
• In a discussion, someone might talk about scraps of information they received versus the whole story or context they need.
• In art, an artist may work with scraps of materials alongside creating whole pieces of art.

The word "parts" can also be used as a synonym for "scraps," but it is less specific than "scraps," which implies unused or leftover bits. "Parts" can refer to pieces that are integral to making a whole.

Substitution

You might use phrases like "fragments and completeness" or simply "leftovers and whole items." While these alternatives carry a similar meaning, "fragments" suggests something is broken, while "leftovers" implies something is unused but still whole.

Deconstruction

• "Scraps": This word comes from Old Norse "skrap", which means "to scrape." It reflects small, leftover bits from something larger.

• "Wholes": This word comes from the Old English "hal," which means "whole, entire." This indicates something that is complete and unbroken.

  Together, they capture the contrast between pieces and entirety.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a time when you had scraps of something? How did you turn those scraps into something useful?
• In what situations do you feel like you only have scraps of information?
• How does the idea of scraps and wholes resonate in your daily life?