Two friends, Emma and Jake, are discussing Jake’s recovery after a recent surgery, while making plans for an upcoming trip:
Emma: So, have you packed already?
Jake: Not quite, but I’ve been thinking about it.
Emma: Thinking about it? Jake, we leave in three days!
Jake: Relax, Emma. I’m on the mend, remember? Doctor said I should take it easy for now.
Emma: I know, but that’s no excuse to procrastinate. You’ll thank me when you’re not scrambling the night before.
Jake: You sound like my mom.
Emma: And your mom would agree with me. By the way, are you sure you’re up for the trip?
Jake: Absolutely. I may not be 100% yet, but I’m feeling stronger every day. Besides, I need this vacation as much as you do.
Emma: Fair enough. Just promise me you’ll speak up if you’re overdoing it, okay?
Jake: Deal. But don’t worry, Emma. This trip is going to be amazing. I’m not letting anything, not even this surgery, hold me back.
Emma: That’s the spirit!
What does the underlined phrase, “on the mend” mean?
Meaning
The phrase “on the mend” refers to the process of recovery, improvement, or healing after a setback, injury, illness, or difficult situation.
It conveys the idea that while things may not yet be fully resolved or back to normal, progress is being made, and the situation is heading in a positive direction.
The expression is often used in both literal and figurative contexts:
- Literal Use: Describing someone’s physical recovery from an injury or illness.
- Figurative Use: Highlighting improvement in situations such as relationships, finances, or general well-being.
Examples of Sentences Using “On the Mend”
I. Health Context:
“After a bad case of the flu, I’m finally on the mend and feeling more like myself again.”
II. Relationships Context:
“They had a big argument last week, but their friendship seems to be on the mend now.”
III. Emotional Recovery:
“Losing her job was tough, but she’s on the mend emotionally and starting to look for new opportunities.”
IV. Financial Improvement:
“After cutting back on expenses and finding a new job, his finances are finally on the mend.”
V. Community Rebuilding:
“The small town is on the mend after the hurricane, with neighbors coming together to rebuild homes and lives.”
On the Mend Quotes/Captions for Social Media
If you’d like to incorporate the phrase into your social media post, here are some creative ways to use it:
Motivational
- “Even when life feels like it’s falling apart, remember: you’re always on the mend, piece by piece.”
- “Sometimes it’s not about how fast you heal, it’s about knowing you’re on the mend with every step forward.”
- “The road to recovery may be slow, but with each day, you’re on the mend and closer to your best self.”
Funny
- “I’m not saying I’m perfect, but I’m definitely on the mend… just after a few more naps!”
- “On the mend and pretending I’m a superhero—just don’t ask about the cape.”
- “They say laughter is the best medicine. I must be on the mend then because I can’t stop laughing at my own jokes!”
Relatable
- “It’s been a rough week, but hey, at least I’m on the mend and making progress, even if it’s just one coffee at a time.”
- “Healing isn’t linear, but I’m on the mend—some days are better than others, and that’s okay!”
- “We all have our bad days, but just remember, even when it feels hard, you’re on the mend.”
Seasonal
- “Like the leaves changing in fall, I’m on the mend, shedding what’s no longer needed to grow stronger.”
- “Spring is in the air, and so is the feeling of being on the mend—new beginnings are always just around the corner!”
- “As the year ends, I’m on the mend, ready to welcome the new season with open arms and fresh energy.”