"Bone up on" is a phrasal verb predominantly used in informal contexts, often encountered in both spoken and written communication when referring to the act of studying or reviewing material intensively, usually in preparation for an exam or an important event. The origin of this phrase is somewhat unclear, but it may have developed from the notion of getting the "bare bones" or essential facts of a subject. Usage is widespread in educational and professional settings, where individuals are required to quickly acquire or refresh their knowledge on particular topics. While not commonly used in formal writing, it is extensively utilized in conversational settings, tutorials, and informal advisement. Additionally, its usage is versatile across various subjects, emphasizing the urgency or necessity to quickly become knowledgeable about a topic.
B2
Advanced
1. To study or review intensively, particularly for an examination or in preparation for a specific event or task.
I need to bone up on my Spanish before the trip to Mexico.
She spent the weekend boning up on chemistry formulas for her final exam.
You should bone up on the company's history before the interview.