Differences between cough up and fix up
Cough up means to pay or give money, often reluctantly or with difficulty, whereas fix up means to repair, renovate, or arrange something.
Meanings and Definitions: cough up vs fix up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Cough up
- 1Lose possession of a ball, etc. in a contact sport.
He was checked so hard he COUGHED UP the puck in front of his own goal.
- 2Expel something from your lungs or throat by coughing.
He gave up smoking after he COUGHED UP some blood.
Fix up
- 1Make an arrangement.
He FIXED UP an appointment for me to see a specialist.
Usage Examples: cough up, fix up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
cough up
Example
He needs to cough up the phlegm to clear his throat.
Example
She coughs up mucus when she has a cold.
fix up
Example
Can you fix up a meeting with the client for next week?
Example
She fixes up appointments for her boss every day.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cough up
pay up
To pay a debt or obligation, often after being reminded or threatened.
Example
The company refused to deliver the goods until the client paid up the outstanding balance.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fix up
spruce up
To improve the appearance or condition of something, often by cleaning, decorating, or repairing it.
Example
She decided to spruce up her apartment before the guests arrived by adding some plants and paintings.
tidy up
To organize or clean a space or object, often to make it more presentable or functional.
Example
He asked his kids to tidy up their room before going out to play, so they wouldn't trip over their toys.
Differences in cough up vs fix up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: cough up or fix up?
In daily conversation, people use fix up more often than cough up. This is because fix up is used for more daily tasks and routines such as fixing a broken appliance or arranging a meeting. Cough up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about paying for something, especially when it's an unexpected or unwanted expense. So, while both phrases are used, fix up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cough up and fix up
Cough up and fix 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 cough up and fix up
The tone of cough up and fix up can differ based on context. Cough up often carries a negative or reluctant tone when related to paying for something, while fix up typically has a positive and proactive tone, especially when referring to repairing or renovating something.
