# cobble together

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cobble-together
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to make something quickly by using whatever parts or materials you have available. You use this when the result is not perfect but it works for now.

For teachers: to assemble or produce something in a hasty, makeshift, or improvised manner. Often implies a lack of careful planning or the use of disparate components.

## Examples

- I had to cobble together a meal from leftovers.
- The team managed to cobble together a working prototype just hours before the big presentation.
- The coalition government was cobbled together from several small parties with wildly different political agendas, leading to immediate internal friction.

## Pitfalls

- Not "They cobbled the plan." but "They cobbled the plan together." — the particle 'together' is essential to convey the meaning of assembly from various parts.

## Usage notes

- usually used for physical objects, plans, or groups created under pressure.
- Teaching tip: the verb 'cobble' originally refers to a shoemaker; explain that just as an old-fashioned cobbler might patch shoes with scraps, we 'cobble together' things from available bits.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.