Differences between buoy up and patch up
Buoy up means to support or encourage someone emotionally, while patch up means to repair or fix something that is damaged or broken.
Meanings and Definitions: buoy up vs patch up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Buoy up
- 1Make someone feel more positive.
After so much criticism, the positive review BUOYED him UP.
- 2Keep afloat.
The lifejacket BUOYED me UP till the boat arrived.
Patch up
- 1Fix or make things better.
I tried to PATCH things UP after the argument, but they wouldn't speak to me.
- 2Give an injured person basic medical treatment.
After the accident, they PATCHED her UP and sent her to hospital.
Usage Examples: buoy up, patch up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
buoy up
Example
Her kind words buoyed me up during a difficult time.
Example
His encouragement buoys her up when she's feeling low.
patch up
Example
I need to patch up the hole in my jeans.
Example
She patches up her relationship with her sister.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Buoy up
cheer up
To become happier or more optimistic.
Example
He tried to cheer up his friend by telling him some funny jokes and stories.
To provide emotional help or encouragement to someone.
Example
She always supports me emotionally when I'm feeling down or stressed out.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Patch up
fix up
To repair or restore something that is damaged or broken.
Example
He spent the weekend fixing up his old motorcycle so he could ride it again.
To repair or fix something that is broken or damaged.
Example
She had to mend her favorite dress after accidentally tearing it on a nail.
To bring something back to its original condition or state.
Example
The antique table was restored to its former beauty after months of careful work by a skilled craftsman.
Differences in buoy up vs patch up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: buoy up or patch up?
In daily conversation, people use patch up more often than buoy up. This is because patch up is used for more practical tasks such as fixing a car or repairing a relationship. Buoy up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about emotional support. So, while both phrases are used, patch up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of buoy up and patch up
Buoy up and patch up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of buoy up and patch up
The tone of buoy up and patch up can differ based on context. Buoy up often carries a positive and supportive tone when related to emotional support, while patch up typically has a practical and problem-solving tone, especially when referring to repairing something that is broken or damaged.
