1 B2 idiomatic informal
To study a particular subject intensively in a short time, usually in preparation for something
"She spent the whole weekend swotting up on European history before the exam."
inseparable
swot up on
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To study a subject intensively, especially before a test or important event
In plain English
Study really hard so you know a lot about something
What does "swot up on" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To quickly learn background information about something before a meeting, interview, or event
"You should swot up on the company before your job interview tomorrow."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To swot (an old word meaning to study hard) upward on a subject — the 'up' intensifies the meaning.
Actually means
Study really hard so you know a lot about something
Usage tip
Primarily British English. 'Swot' alone is also British slang for a person who studies excessively. Often used before exams, job interviews, or presentations. Slightly dated but still widely understood.
Words that pair with "swot up on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
exam interview subject topic history facts
How to conjugate "swot up on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
swot up on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
swots up on
he/she/it
Past simple
swoted up on
yesterday
Past participle
swoted up on
have + pp
-ing form
swoting up on
continuous
Hear "swot up on" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "swot up on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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