patch up: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘patch up’ mean?
The idiom "patch up" means to repair or fix something, often referring to relationships or conflicts that need resolving. It implies resolving issues by finding a solution or compromising to restore harmony.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "touch up" means to make minor corrections, adjustments, or improvements to something, such as a piece of artwork, a photograph, or personal appearance.
The idiom "put back" means to return something to its original place or position. It can also mean to delay or reschedule an event or activity.
The idiom "put back" has several meanings and uses in American English.
The idiom "pull one's socks up" means to make an effort to improve or do better in a particular situation.
The idiom "pull one's socks up" is a common expression in English that conveys the idea of taking action to address a problem or improve one's situation. This phrase is often used figuratively and is not to be taken literally. The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it is widely believed to have originated in Britain and has been in use since at least the early 20th century.
The idiom "prop up" means to support or sustain something or someone that is weak or struggling, often by providing assistance or resources.
Prop up is an idiomatic expression that dates back to the early 19th century. It means to support or hold up, and it is widely used in American English.
The idiom *plug in* means to connect or insert a cable or electrical device into an outlet or socket. It can also be used figuratively to describe the act of becoming involved in or connected to something.
The idiom "play up" means to emphasize or highlight something, often in order to gain attention or elicit a certain reaction. It can also refer to exaggerating or overplaying a situation or a person's abilities.
The idiom "pitch in" means to join in and help or contribute to a task or activity.
The idiom "pick up stitches" means to resume or continue working on a project, especially after a period of pause or interruption.
The idiom "pick up stitches" is a common phrase that has an interesting etymology rooted in the craft of knitting. Originally, the term "pick up stitches" was used in knitting circles to refer to adding new stitches to the knitting needle to continue working a piece of fabric.
The idiom "pick apart" means to closely examine or criticize something in a detailed and thorough manner, often with the intention of finding flaws or weaknesses. It suggests a process of breaking down and analyzing something piece by piece.
The idiom "pea patch" refers to a place where one feels a sense of comfort and contentment. It symbolizes a peaceful and enjoyable environment.
Unveiling Symbolic Synonyms
The idiom "make amends" is closely related to the concept of "patch up." When two individuals have had a disagreement or conflict, they may need to "make amends" in order to restore the relationship. This involves taking responsibility for one's actions, apologizing, and taking steps to repair the damage done. Just like "patching up" a broken relationship, "making amends" requires effort and a commitment to resolving the issues at hand.
Another related idiom is "mend fences," which also shares similarities with "patching up." When individuals or groups have had a falling out or a strained relationship, they may need to "mend fences" to rebuild trust and understanding. This phrase implies the act of repairing and strengthening the bond between parties, just like "patching up" a damaged object or relationship.
The idiom "patch up" encompasses the ideas of "make amends" and "mend fences" by highlighting the importance of repairing and restoring relationships, whether they are emotional or physical in nature.
Now let's explore some examples of how the idiom "patch up" is used in different contexts.
In a romantic relationship, when a couple has experienced a disagreement or argument, they may need to "patch up" their relationship by having open and honest communication. This involves expressing their feelings, addressing the issues at hand, and working together to find a resolution. By "patching up" their relationship, the couple can move forward and rebuild their connection.
Similarly, in a friendship, if two friends have had a falling out, they may decide to "patch up" their friendship by acknowledging their mistakes, forgiving each other, and making a genuine effort to rebuild trust. By "patching up" their friendship, they give themselves an opportunity to continue supporting and caring for each other.
Aside from personal relationships, the idiom "patch up" can also be used in business or professional contexts. For example, if a team at work has experienced conflicts or disagreements, they may need to "patch up" their working relationships in order to collaborate effectively. This may involve having team-building activities, fostering open communication, and addressing any underlying issues. By "patching up" their working relationships, the team can improve their productivity and create a positive work environment.
In addition to relationships, the idiom "patch up" can also refer to the act of physically repairing or mending something. For instance, if someone has a hole in their favorite t-shirt, they may choose to "patch up" the hole by sewing it or using a fabric patch. This allows them to continue wearing the t-shirt without the hole being visible, effectively "patching up" the garment.
Another example is in the field of home repairs. If a wall has a crack or a hole, a homeowner may need to "patch up" the wall by filling the crack and covering it with plaster or paint. This restores the wall's integrity and appearance, effectively "patching up" the damaged area.
To summarize, the idiom "patch up" encompasses the act of repairing and restoring, whether it's in relationships or physical objects. Just like the related idioms "make amends" and "mend fences," "patching up" involves taking steps to mend and reconcile. It is a versatile phrase used in various contexts, and its usage highlights the importance of repairing and restoring in order to move forward.
Example usage
1. After their fight, the siblings agreed to patch up their differences and reconcile.
2. The couple decided to patch up their rocky relationship and give it another chance.
3. The mechanic was able to patch up the damage to the car and get it running again.
More "Repair" idioms
