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hug it out

B1 informal intransitive

To resolve a disagreement or emotional tension by hugging each other.

In plain English

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

What does "hug it out" mean?

2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.

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."

Literal vs figurative

Words literally mean

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

Actually means

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

Usage tip

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.

Words that pair with "hug it out"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

argument fight disagreement conflict friends brothers

How to conjugate "hug it out"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

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

Hear "hug it out" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "hug it out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Other ways to say "hug it out"

Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.

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

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