1 B2 idiomatic informal
To study a subject intensively, usually in preparation for an exam, interview, or important event.
"I need to bone up on my Spanish before the trip to Mexico next month."
inseparable
bone up
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
To study or review a subject intensively, especially in preparation for a test or event.
In plain English
To study something hard before a test or event, especially when you need to learn a lot quickly.
What does "bone up" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To refresh or update one's knowledge of a topic that one has not studied recently.
"The lawyer spent the weekend boning up on the relevant case law before the trial."
inseparable
Usage tip
Chiefly American informal. Usually followed by 'on' (e.g. 'bone up on your French'). Implies deliberate, intensive study before a specific event. Very common in casual speech and informal writing.
Words that pair with "bone up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
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How to conjugate "bone up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
bone up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bones up
he/she/it
Past simple
boned up
yesterday
Past participle
boned up
have + pp
-ing form
boning up
continuous
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