The phrase patch up is commonly used to describe the act of repairing or mending something, whether it is a relationship, a situation, or an object. In interpersonal contexts, to patch up a relationship means to resolve a conflict or mend a disagreement, often after a period of tension or estrangement. This can involve making amends, apologizing, and rebuilding trust to restore harmony. Similarly, in situations of conflict or misunderstanding, to patch up a situation implies taking steps to resolve the issue and restore peace. The phrase can also apply to physical objects, where patching up refers to making repairs, such as fixing a hole in a wall or mending torn clothing. While patching up often indicates a temporary or partial fix, it can still represent significant efforts to restore functionality or harmony. Whether it’s in relationships or physical repairs, patching up is an important process that signals a desire for improvement and reconciliation.
Sample Sentences
- After their argument, they decided to patch up their differences and move on.
- They patched up the old car with a few quick fixes before selling it.
- The couple spent the weekend patching up their relationship after a rough patch.
- The two teams managed to patch up their disagreement and continue collaborating.
- We need to patch up the roof before the rainy season starts.
- He made an attempt to patch up the issue with a heartfelt apology.
- The company worked hard to patch up the damage caused by the public scandal.
- After the conflict at work, the manager tried to patch up relations with the employees.
- The team had to patch up the leak in the pipeline to avoid further damage.
- It took several weeks, but they finally patched up their friendship and moved forward.
Synonyms for “Patch Up”
- Repair
- Mend
- Fix
- Reconcile
- Resolve
- Heal
- Ameliorate
- Restore
- Rebuild
- Correct
Antonyms for “Patch Up”
- Worsen
- Damage
- Ruin
- Break
- Deteriorate
- Destroy
- Aggravate
- Complicate
- Disrupt
- Alienate
Related Words and Expressions
Related Words:
- Repair
- Mend
- Reconcile
- Restore
- Resolve
- Heal
- Fix
- Ameliorate
- Restore
- Rebuild
Phrasal Verbs:
- Patch up a relationship (to reconcile after a disagreement)
- Patch up a situation (to resolve or fix a problem)
- Patch up differences (to resolve conflicts or disagreements)
- Patch up the cracks (to repair or resolve minor issues in a relationship or situation)
- Patch something together (to create a temporary or makeshift solution)
Idiomatic Expressions:
- Make amends (to repair damage or reconcile)
- Bury the hatchet (to make peace and resolve past conflicts)
- Call a truce (to agree to cease hostilities and make peace)
- Smooth things over (to reduce tension and resolve conflicts)
- Make things right (to correct a wrong or resolve a conflict)