fix things up

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fix things up" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that you are trying to make something better or that you are attempting to resolve an issue. For example: "I'm trying to fix things up with my boss, so I'm going to apologize for my mistake."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"With Forrest gone, there's no one to fix things up," she said.

The New Yorker

"If they don't fix things up, and if no one calls," Sallie said gravely, "then you have to take him to the shelter when you come back.

The New Yorker

On the ground, this entails buying up blocks in Detroit and populating the houses with people who promise to fix things up in exchange for cheap rent.

The Guardian - Books

Can we expect that Bristol-Myers will fix things up?

Forbes

As long as Rob could fix things up within a day or two, he should be fine — right?

TechCrunch

Sometimes you like to give them that opportunity to fix things up". "It's probably the worst run of injuries we've been involved with as as a team, but you can't dwell on it, you just have to plan going forward.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

They fine-tune some new numbers while the crew scuttle around them, taping things down, fixing things up and carrying spare guitars.

Independent

"The way they've fixed things up is just incredible," said Washington, who lives in a one-bedroom, three-bathroom condo on Somerville Street.

The Washington Post

Mrs. Obama asked him to bring some of his signature pep and inspiration to the White House, telling him to "spend a little time in the Oval Office just fixing things up for this president".

The New York Times

Determine how much you are willing to spend fixing things up and upgrading them.

WikiHow

The great revival of craft, DIY and restoration is making it not only acceptable but desirable to be fixing things up from the past to make them work for your future.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fix things up" when you want to convey a sense of informal improvement or repair, often in a domestic or personal context. It's suitable for situations where a complete overhaul isn't necessary, but some adjustments are needed.

Common error

Avoid using "fix things up" in highly formal or professional documents. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "rectify the situation" or "remedy the problem" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fix things up" functions as a phrasal verb, indicating an action to correct or improve something. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "fix things up" is a common and correct way to express the act of improving or repairing something, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While versatile, it leans toward informal and neutral contexts. Its usage spans from personal improvements to broader problem-solving scenarios, making it essential for various communications. To maintain professional tone, remember to opt for "correct the errors" or similar phrases in formal settings. Use "fix things up" when you want to convey a sense of informal improvement or repair.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rectify the situation

Emphasizes correcting something that went wrong.

remedy the problem

Focuses on providing a solution to a specific issue.

set things right

Implies restoring justice or fairness.

straighten things out

Suggests resolving confusion or disarray.

mend matters

Indicates repairing a damaged relationship or situation.

improve the situation

Offers a broader scope for positive change or advancement.

resolve the issue

Concentrates on finding a solution and concluding a problem.

correct the errors

Specifically targets inaccuracies or mistakes.

repair the damage

Addresses the need to fix any harm or destruction.

restore order

Highlights bringing back a sense of arrangement or control.

FAQs

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

You can use "fix things up" to describe making improvements or repairs, such as "I'm trying to fix things up around the house" or "We need to fix things up with our clients after that mistake".

What's a more formal way to say "fix things up"?

For more formal situations, consider using phrases like "rectify the situation", "remedy the problem", or "resolve the issue".

Is "fix things up" appropriate for business communication?

While "fix things up" is understandable, it may sound too informal for formal business settings. Alternatives like "correct the errors" or "improve the situation" are often more suitable.

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

"Fix things up" generally means making improvements or minor repairs, while "repair the damage" suggests addressing more significant harm or destruction. The best choice depends on the extent of the issue you're describing.