to fix something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to fix something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of repairing or resolving an issue with an object, situation, or problem. Example: "I need to fix something in the software before we can proceed with the launch."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He needed to fix something else.

The New York Times - Food

"He painted to fix something in place," she writes.

The Economist

These laws try to fix something that was never broken".

The New York Times

Why try to fix something that's irrevocably broken?

The Guardian - Opinion

"I like being able to fix something that affects people.

The New York Times

You call them to fix something and they forget.

The New York Times

I can't fix or try to fix something I don't know about.

The New York Times

Mr. Holder said that Stand Your Ground laws try to fix something that was never broken.

The New York Times

Sometimes you try to fix something and it ends up more broken than ever.

The New Yorker

Half the time I tried to fix something, I just made it worse.

The New York Times

THAT it ain't broke has never been a reason for Singapore's government not to fix something.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to fix something", consider the specific context. If you are referring to a mechanical issue, "to repair something" might be more appropriate. For abstract issues, consider alternatives like "to resolve an issue" or "to correct a problem".

Common error

While "to fix something" is generally acceptable, it can sound too informal in academic or professional writing. Opt for more precise and formal alternatives like "to rectify", "to resolve", or "to amend" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "to fix something" is as an infinitive phrase acting as a verb complement or object. It indicates the action of repairing or resolving an issue. Ludwig provides examples that highlight its common usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to fix something" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey the act of repairing or resolving an issue. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and versatile across various contexts. While its usage is widespread in news and media, and generally acceptable, more formal alternatives may be preferable in academic or professional settings. When choosing "to fix something", consider if alternatives like "to repair something" or "to resolve an issue" might be more appropriate for the intended audience and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to repair something

This alternative focuses on the act of restoring something to a functional state, often implying physical damage.

to resolve an issue

This alternative is more formal and applicable to abstract problems or conflicts rather than physical objects.

to correct a problem

This suggests identifying and rectifying errors or faults, often in a system or process.

to remedy a situation

This implies improving or alleviating an undesirable condition or circumstance.

to mend something

This is often used in the context of repairing fabric or relationships, suggesting a delicate or careful approach.

to debug something

Specifically refers to finding and removing errors in computer code or software.

to troubleshoot something

This involves identifying and solving problems, especially with machinery or electronic devices.

to set right something

This suggests restoring justice or order to a situation that has gone wrong.

to improve a situation

This focuses on making something better, though not necessarily fixing a specific problem.

to ameliorate something

This is a more formal and less common way of saying to improve a situation.

FAQs

What are some alternative ways to say "to fix something"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "to repair something", "to resolve an issue", or "to correct a problem".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "to fix something"?

The phrase "to fix something" is generally suitable for informal and everyday contexts. In more formal or professional settings, consider using alternatives that convey a higher degree of precision and formality.

Is "to fix something" grammatically correct?

Yes, "to fix something" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's validity.

How does "to fix something" differ from "to solve something"?

"To fix something" generally implies repairing or correcting something that is broken or not working properly. "To solve something" /s/to+solve+something refers to finding a solution to a problem or difficult situation, which may not necessarily involve something being broken.