patch things up
Restore broken bonds
To patch things up is to repair a relationship or resolve a disagreement after conflict.
The phrase suggests mending rather than replacing—restoring something damaged to working order: They had a terrible fight but managed to patch things up before the wedding.
Often implies the repair is functional rather than perfect.
- reconcileResolve a disagreement
- mendRestore after damage
- mend fencesRestore strained relations
- fixRepair or solution
- repairRestore to working order
heal · forgive · bury the hatchet · apologize · make amends · smooth over · clear the air · resolve · settle · restore · build bridges · bridge · reconnect · truce · olive branch · handshake · kiss and make up · hug
- reconciliationreconciliation, reconcile, reconciled, reconciling, making up
- relationship valuestrust, loyalty, respect, honesty, commitment
patch things upfall out
To have a dispute
break up · cut ties · part ways · split up · burn bridges
patch things upescalate
Increase in severity
stir up trouble · fan the flames · add fuel to the fire · pick a fight · provoke
patch things uphold a grudge
Maintain lasting resentment
bear a grudge · keep fighting · keep score · dig in one's heels
patch, thing, things, patches, patched, patching, patchwork, patchy, patchiness