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hug it out

B1 informal intransitive
In simple words

End a fight or argument by giving each other a hug.

Literal meaning: To resolve something ('it') by hugging — fairly transparent.

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic informal

To settle a disagreement or bad feeling between two people by embracing.

"Come on, you two have been arguing all day — just hug it out and be done with it."

"Hug it out, bitch."

— Entourage, Season 1 (HBO, 2004) — recurring catchphrase of the character Ari Gold
2 B2 idiomatic informal

Used ironically or humorously to suggest that a physical gesture of warmth can solve a problem.

"I'm sure these trade negotiators will just hug it out and everything will be fine."

Usage notes

Popularised by the TV series Entourage (US, 2004–2011), where it was a recurring phrase. Now widely used in general conversation. Carries a warm, sometimes ironic or humorous tone. The 'it' refers to the conflict or bad feelings.

Commonly used with

argument fight disagreement conflict friends brothers

Forms

Base
hug it out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
hugs it out
he/she/it
Past simple
huged it out
yesterday
Past participle
huged it out
have + pp
-ing form
huging it out
continuous

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Synonyms

make up reconcile make peace bury the hatchet kiss and make up

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