Fix Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fix

[fษชks ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

repair

To fix something means to repair or mend it, typically making it functional again. It can also refer to adjusting or setting something in place.

Synonyms

adjust, mend, repair, restore.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fix

When something is broken or not working properly and you want to make it function again.

  • He needs to fix his bike before he can ride it again
repair

When something that is usually mechanical or complex is broken and needs to be fixed.

  • The mechanic repaired the carโ€™s engine
mend

When something, especially fabric or clothing, is torn or damaged and you want to sew it back together.

  • She mended her son's pants after he tore them playing outside
restore

When something old, worn, or damaged is brought back to its original condition, often something valuable or significant.

  • They restored the old painting to its former glory
adjust

When something needs to be changed a little to make it better or more suitable for a specific purpose.

  • She adjusted the chair to be more comfortable

Examples of usage

  • I need to fix my car before I can drive it again.
  • We need to fix the leak in the roof before it rains.
  • She fixed the picture frame on the wall.
  • Can you fix the broken chair?
  • The technician fixed the problem with my computer.
Context #2 | Verb

arrange

To fix something can also mean to arrange or set it in a particular way. It can refer to planning or deciding on something.

Synonyms

arrange, organize, schedule, set-up.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fix

Use 'fix' in a different meaning when talking about firmly establishing something or making it stable.

  • We need to fix this painting to the wall.
  • Fix the schedule so everyone knows what to do.
arrange

Use 'arrange' when talking about putting things in a specific order or making plans.

  • I need to arrange the books on the shelf.
  • Let's arrange a meeting for next week.
set-up

Use 'set-up' when talking about preparing equipment or establishing an arrangement.

  • We need to set-up the conference room before the presentation.
  • He set-up the new television last night.
organize

Use 'organize' when talking about planning or structuring something in a systematic way.

  • She will organize the event and make sure everything runs smoothly.
  • You should organize your desk to find things more easily.
schedule

Use 'schedule' when setting a specific time or date for an event or activity.

  • Can you schedule a meeting for Monday?
  • I need to schedule my doctor's appointment.

Examples of usage

  • I'll fix a meeting with the client for next week.
  • She fixed the schedule for the event.
  • Let's fix a time to meet for coffee.
  • He fixed the details of the contract.
Context #3 | Noun

predicament

A fix can also refer to a difficult situation or a predicament. It is often used informally to describe a troublesome or challenging circumstance.

Synonyms

dilemma, predicament, predicament.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fix

A 'fix' refers to a difficult or awkward situation that needs to be resolved. It is often used in informal contexts.

  • I'm in a real fix because I lost my keys and I'm locked out of my house.
  • She's in a fix with her finances this month.
predicament

A 'predicament' indicates an unpleasant, challenging, or embarrassing situation. It has a slightly more negative connotation compared to 'fix' and is used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • He's in a predicament because he has to choose between two equally bad options.
  • Their company is in a financial predicament after the market crash.
dilemma

A 'dilemma' describes a situation where a difficult choice has to be made between two or more alternatives that are equally undesirable or equally favorable. It is often used in more serious or formal contexts.

  • She faces a dilemma about whether to move abroad for her job or stay with her family.
  • I'm in a moral dilemma: should I tell the truth and hurt my friend's feelings or lie and keep them happy?

Examples of usage

  • I'm in a fix and need help.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'fixer-upper' describes homes that need repairs but are attractive for buyers willing to put in the work.
  • In movies, a common plot revolves around characters trying to fix their lives or relationships, adding depth to storytelling.
  • Popular reality shows often depict individuals fixing up old houses, highlighting creativity and craftsmanship.

Science

  • In biology, 'fixation' refers to the process of making an unstable molecule more stable, essential in many reactions.
  • Fixing nitrogen is a crucial process for plants to obtain nutrients from the soil, demonstrating the wordโ€™s importance in ecology.
  • In chemistry, fixing a compound may involve solidifying a gas to create a stable state for further reactions.

Psychology

  • The term 'fixation' in psychology describes when a person becomes stuck at a certain stage of development or behavior.
  • In therapy, addressing fixations can help individuals move past limiting thoughts or habits to achieve emotional health.
  • Freud suggested that fixations in childhood could lead to adult personality traits and behaviors, influencing modern understanding of development.

Technology

  • The term 'bug fix' is frequently used in software development to describe the solution to an error in a program.
  • Companies regularly release patches to fix security vulnerabilities and make software safer for users.
  • In electronics, a 'fix' may refer to both temporary workarounds and permanent solutions for hardware problems.

Origin of 'fix'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'fix' comes from Latin 'fixare', meaning to fasten or make firm, reflecting its use in repairing.
  • In the 15th century, the English language adopted 'fix' to denote the action of securing or mending something.
  • The word also evolved in the 19th century to mean creating a permanent solution, particularly in technical contexts.

The word 'fix' originated from Middle English 'fixen', which came from Old French 'fixer', ultimately derived from Latin 'fixus', past participle of 'figere' meaning 'to fasten, affix'. The word has evolved over time to encompass various meanings related to repair, arrange, or predicament.


See also: fixable, fixate, fixated, fixatedly, fixating, fixation, fixations, fixative, fixed, fixer, fixes, fixing, fixity, fixture, transfix, unfixable, unfixed.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,808, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.