patch up
B2 neutral mixed transitive
In simple words
to fix something, or help people stop being angry with each other
Literal meaning: to cover a hole or damaged area with a patch, then make it whole again
Meanings
1 B1 neutral
to repair something quickly or roughly so that it works or holds together again
"We patched up the fence before the storm got worse."
Grammar: separable
2 B2
idiomatic
neutral
to treat an injured person with basic medical care
"The nurse patched him up and sent him home to rest."
Grammar: separable
3 B2
idiomatic
neutral
to restore a relationship or end a disagreement between people
"After weeks of silence, the brothers finally patched things up."
Grammar: mixed
Usage notes
Common for both physical repairs and damaged relationships. In medical contexts, it can mean giving basic treatment rather than fully curing someone.
Commonly used with
relationship quarrel wound differences roof friendship
Forms
Base
patch up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
patches up
he/she/it
Past simple
patched up
yesterday
Past participle
patched up
have + pp
-ing form
patching up
continuous
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Synonyms
repair mend fix heal reconcile make peace
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