Grammar fix
patch things up
repair a relationship
To improve a relationship after an argument or difficult period.
How oftenCommon
LevelB2
Used inMostly spoken
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
We had a serious disagreement, but we patched things up before the family holiday.
My cousin and I argued about money a few years ago, but we patched things up after talking honestly about what had happened.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: They patched up with each other.
Say: They patched things up with each other.
Usually include 'things' in this expression: 'patch things up with someone'.
Don't confuse it
Other ways to say it
Become friends again after an argument
How deep a conflictDisagreementLasting feud
make upBecome friendly again after an argument.
patch things upYou're here · Repair a relationship after an argument or period of trouble.
bury the hatchetAgree to end a quarrel, especially one lasting some time.