‘擦伤’ (cā shāng) literally combines ‘擦’ (to rub, to scrape) and ‘伤’ (injury, wound), meaning a superficial skin injury caused by friction—such as scraping against a rough surface. It’s not deep enough to require stitches, but may involve redness, minor bleeding, or peeling skin. Commonly used in medical contexts, first-aid discussions, and everyday descriptions of minor accidents.

This term emphasizes the mechanical cause: rubbing or dragging contact rather than a cut (割伤) or puncture (刺伤). It’s neutral in register—appropriate for both casual conversation (e.g., describing a child’s fall) and clinical notes. Unlike ‘伤口’ (general wound), ‘擦伤’ specifies abrasion-type trauma and is rarely used metaphorically.