Meaning
To end a quarrel or conflict and become friendly again.
Cultural Background
The phrase is widely understood as a symbol of peace. It is often used in political contexts to describe ending partisan fighting. Used similarly to North American English, though perhaps slightly less frequently in casual conversation. In international business, it is understood by most English speakers, but be careful with the literal translation in cultures that don't share the metaphor.
Use it for closure
Use this phrase when you want to signal that the argument is officially over.
Don't be sarcastic
If you say it with a mean tone, it will sound like you are mocking the other person.
Meaning
To end a quarrel or conflict and become friendly again.
Use it for closure
Use this phrase when you want to signal that the argument is officially over.
Don't be sarcastic
If you say it with a mean tone, it will sound like you are mocking the other person.
Pair it with an action
Saying 'Let's bury the hatchet' while offering a handshake or a coffee is very effective.
Test Yourself
Complete the idiom.
It is time to ____ the hatchet.
The idiom is 'bury the hatchet'.
What does this mean?
If you bury the hatchet, you are...
It means to end a conflict.
Choose the best response.
A: 'I'm sorry for what I said.' B: '____.'
It is the appropriate response to an apology.
Which situation fits?
You and your brother are arguing. What do you say?
You want to end the argument.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIt is time to ____ the hatchet.
The idiom is 'bury the hatchet'.
If you bury the hatchet, you are...
It means to end a conflict.
A: 'I'm sorry for what I said.' B: '____.'
It is the appropriate response to an apology.
You and your brother are arguing. What do you say?
You want to end the argument.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questionsNo, it is always 'the' hatchet because it refers to the specific symbolic weapon of peace.
It is neutral. You can use it with friends or colleagues.
Then don't use it! It implies you are ready to move on.
Yes, it has American roots, but it is used throughout the English-speaking world.
It is a bit light for a real war, but it works for political or corporate 'wars'.
Yes, it is very common in movies, books, and daily life.
Related Phrases
Make up
synonymTo become friends again.
Let bygones be bygones
similarTo ignore past problems.
Clear the air
similarTo remove tension by talking.
