bone up
Review before exams
To bone up is to study intensively, usually in preparation for something: I need to bone up on my Spanish before the trip, She boned up for the interview by reading the company's annual reports.
The phrase suggests cramming or refreshing knowledge rather than leisurely learning.
Refresh previously learned knowledge
- reviewCritical written assessment
- polishSmooth by rubbing
- refreshRestore energy or newness
- revisitExamine again later
relearn · dust off · reacquaint · catch up · update · retrain · sharpen · tune up
Paper memorization tools
- memorizationCommitting information to recall
- all-nighterSleepless work stretch
- marathonLong-distance footrace
- drillHole-boring device
repetition · intensive · review · information · absorb · last-minute · overload · session
Deliberate learning effort
- learnAcquire knowledge or skill
- understandGrasp the meaning
- graspSeize or understand
- masterAuthority or controller
comprehend · expertise · proficiency · knowledge · preparation · practice · training · skill-building
Evaluative examination
- finalsConcluding tests or matches
- midtermsExams at semester's center
- quizBrief informal test
- SATCollege admissions exam
GRE · MCAT · LSAT · bar exam · entrance exam · certification · licensing · board exam
brush up
Refresh previously learned knowledge
revisit · relearn · dust off · reacquaint · catch up · update · retrain · sharpen · tune up · restore
flashcards
Paper memorization tools
- memorizationCommitting information to recall
- all-nighterSleepless work stretch
- marathonLong-distance footrace
drill · repetition · intensive · review · information · absorb · last-minute · overload · session · rote
study
Deliberate learning effort
- learnAcquire knowledge or skill
- understandGrasp the meaning
- graspSeize or understand
master · comprehend · expertise · proficiency · knowledge · preparation · practice · training · skill-building · competence
test
Evaluative examination
SAT · GRE · MCAT · LSAT · bar exam · entrance exam · certification · licensing · board exam · oral exam
- learninglearning, learn, classes, instruction, studying
- getting readyget ready, readying, be prepared, equipping, gear up
- learning termstraining, basics, fundamentals, foundation, groundwork
bone upwing it
Act without preparation
procrastinate · leave to chance · improvise · ad-lib · play it by ear