pick up the pieces

Idioms  

1. Redeem a bad situation, restore matters to normal, as in Once fighting ended, the task force picked up the pieces and restored democracy. [Late 1800s]

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Example Sentences

Washington will need to pick up the pieces and create something new.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

India's ultra-aggressive left-handed opening pair have failed to fire, leaving a shaky middle order to pick up the pieces.

From Barron's • Feb. 23, 2026

Many have been hospitalized and are still trying to pick up the pieces.

From Slate • Feb. 2, 2026

On the ground, however, there remains a sense of unity as Sri Lankans pick up the pieces after the floods.

From BBC • Dec. 2, 2025

"Every time, he breaks your hearts. And every time, he expects me to pick up the pieces."

From "Eleanor & Park" by Rainbow Rowell