fix them up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fix them up" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to repairing, improving, or preparing something or someone for a better condition or appearance. Example: "After the storm, we need to fix them up before we can use the tools again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

"People don't fix them up," Mr. Pillay, 32, said.

The New York Times

They break easily and I fix them up".

The New York Times

Seekers nudge everyone they know to fix them up, and tend to remarry relatively quickly.

The New Yorker

He was able to buy centrally located apartments and fix them up for relatively small investments.

The New York Times

"I'm interested in run-down properties so I can fix them up".

The New York Times

Two years later, friends decided to fix them up and arranged a double date.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

We've gotta work on fixing them up".

The New Yorker

A mutual friend fixed them up on a date.

The New York Times - Style

"So many people are buying houses and fixing them up".

The New York Times - Travel

"My passion is to find ways of fixing them up," Mr. Kuran said in an interview.

The New York Times - Science

Health care is about keeping people healthy or fixing them up when they get sick.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to physical objects, use "fix them up" to indicate repair or renovation. When referring to people, it often implies setting them up on a date or improving their appearance or well-being.

Common error

Avoid using "fix them up" in formal writing when referring to people if the intention is matchmaking. Instead, consider using the more explicit phrase "set them up", which is more direct and less ambiguous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fix them up" functions primarily as a phrasal verb. It usually has the function of describing an action to repair or improve something, or to arrange a date for someone. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Academia

13%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fix them up" is a versatile phrasal verb commonly used to indicate repairing, improving, or arranging something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Predominantly found in News & Media, with some presence in Academic and Wiki sources, it generally maintains a neutral register, suitable for a wide range of contexts. When writing, remember that while acceptable in most scenarios, in formal writing, you might prefer more precise terms like "repair", "renovate", or "set up" depending on the specific intention. The phrase's high usage frequency underscores its relevance in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

repair them

Focuses specifically on restoring something to a functional state after damage or wear.

mend them

Implies repairing something that is torn or broken, often used for fabrics or clothes.

renovate them

Suggests making significant improvements or updates to a building or space.

rehabilitate them

Often used in the context of restoring something to a former condition or capacity, such as a building or a person.

restore them

Emphasizes returning something to its original condition or appearance.

improve them

Broadly suggests making something better, without necessarily implying repair.

arrange them

Implies organizing or setting up something, particularly people for a date or meeting.

set them up

Suggests arranging a date or opportunity for someone.

spruce them up

Indicates making something more attractive or presentable, often through minor improvements.

recondition them

Focuses on restoring something to good working order.

FAQs

How can I use "fix them up" in a sentence?

You can use "fix them up" to describe repairing something: "We need to "repair them" after the storm". It can also mean arranging a date for someone: "My friends tried to "set them up" on a blind date".

What's the difference between "fix them up" and "repair them"?

"Fix them up" is a broader term that can include repair, renovation, or improvement. "Repair them" specifically refers to restoring something to a functional state. For example, you might "fix up" an old house with renovations, but you "repair" a broken appliance.

What can I say instead of "fix them up" when referring to a property?

When talking about properties, you can use alternatives such as "renovate them", "restore them", or "remodel them" to convey the idea of improving its condition.

Is "fix them up" appropriate in formal writing?

While "fix them up" is common in everyday language, it might be too informal for some professional contexts. In formal writing, consider alternatives like ""repair them"" or "improve them" for a more professional tone.