1 B1 idiomatic informal
To study a topic by reading about it, especially to prepare for something.
"Before the interview, I read up on the company's history and recent projects."
inseparable
read up
B1 informal inseparable intransitive
To study a subject by reading about it, especially to prepare for something or to learn more.
In plain English
To read a lot about something so you know more about it.
What does "read up" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic informal
To learn about a subject informally through reading for one's own interest.
"She spent the weekend reading up on astronomy after watching a documentary about black holes."
inseparable
Usage tip
Usually followed by 'on': 'read up on something'. Implies focused, purposeful reading to gain knowledge about a specific topic, often before a meeting, interview, trip, or exam.
Words that pair with "read up"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
subject topic history destination condition company
How to conjugate "read up"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
read up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
reads up
he/she/it
Past simple
read up
yesterday
Past participle
read up
have + pp
-ing form
reading up
continuous
Hear "read up" in the wild
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Other ways to say "read up"
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