The phrase patch things up refers to the act of repairing a damaged relationship, resolving misunderstandings, or restoring harmony after a disagreement or conflict. It is an informal way to describe making amends, reconciling, or addressing issues that have caused tension. To patch things up typically involves open communication, mutual apologies, and a willingness to move past grievances. This phrase often applies to personal relationships, such as those between friends, family members, or romantic partners, but it can also extend to professional or diplomatic contexts. The act of patching things up demonstrates emotional maturity and the ability to prioritize relationships over pride or ego. It reflects the value of forgiveness and the importance of nurturing meaningful connections despite occasional setbacks. Whether it’s a small misunderstanding or a significant conflict, the decision to patch things up is a step toward healing and fostering long-term bonds.
Sample Sentences
- After their argument, they decided to sit down and patch things up.
- The siblings were able to patch things up after a heartfelt conversation.
- It took months of effort, but they finally managed to patch things up.
- She wrote him a letter to patch things up and apologize for her mistakes.
- They sought counseling to patch things up and save their marriage.
- The two colleagues decided to patch things up after their workplace disagreement.
- It’s never too late to patch things up with someone you care about.
- He surprised her with flowers as a way to patch things up after their fight.
- They agreed to put their egos aside and patch things up for the sake of the team.
- A simple phone call was all it took to patch things up and restore their friendship.
Synonyms for “Patch Things Up”
- Reconcile
- Make amends
- Mend fences
- Settle differences
- Resolve conflicts
- Heal the rift
- Restore harmony
- Smooth things over
- Fix the relationship
- Make peace
Antonyms for “Patch Things Up”
- Worsen the conflict
- Break ties
- Ruin the relationship
- Escalate tensions
- Prolong the disagreement
- Deepen the rift
- Create animosity
- Foster resentment
- Sever connections
- Maintain hostility
Related Words and Expressions
Related Words:
- Forgiveness
- Reparation
- Reconciliation
- Compromise
- Understanding
- Resolution
- Apology
- Empathy
- Mediation
- Diplomacy
Phrasal Verbs:
- Make up (to reconcile after a disagreement)
- Smooth over (to reduce or eliminate conflict)
- Work through (to address and resolve issues)
- Reach out (to initiate reconciliation)
- Bring together (to unite and repair relationships)
Idiomatic Expressions:
- Bury the hatchet (to end a conflict and reconcile)
- Let bygones be bygones (to forget past grievances and move on)
- Extend an olive branch (to offer peace and reconciliation)
- Turn the page (to move on from conflict)
- Kiss and make up (to reconcile affectionately after a disagreement)
