Rake up

usgb
phrasal verb

To bring up or remember an unpleasant event or topic from the past.

I wish you wouldn't keep raking up my past mistakes.
Visual representation of "rake up" - To bring up or remember an unpleasant event or topic from the past.

Often appears as...

  • rake up the past
  • rake up old wounds

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "rake up"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Negative Tone

Using 'rake up' can imply criticism or judgment, showing disapproval of bringing up the past.

Illustration for Negative Tone
Why must you always rake up what happened years ago?
LampPro Tip 2/3

Emotional Impact

'Rake up' can evoke strong emotions if it refers to someone's difficult or embarrassing history.

Illustration for Emotional Impact
Mentioning the scandal only rakes up unnecessary pain.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Conversation Shift

'Rake up' can be used to shift a conversation to address unresolved issues from the past.

Illustration for Conversation Shift
We need to rake up our last argument to understand each other better.
Visual representation of the word "Rake up"

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