“Bone up” is a colloquial phrase that is commonly used in the English language. It is used to describe the act of studying or learning something thoroughly. This article will explore the different definitions and meanings of the phrase, its origin, and its use in various contexts.
Definitions
The phrase “bone up” can be defined as the act of studying or learning something thoroughly. It can also refer to the act of refreshing one’s memory on a particular subject. The phrase is often used in the context of preparing for an exam or a presentation.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “bone up” is unclear. However, it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-19th century. The phrase was first recorded in print in 1854 in the book “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of “bone up” is consistent across different dictionaries. The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “to study hard or intensively.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “to study or memorize thoroughly.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “to study a subject in order to be able to speak or write about it confidently.”
Associations
The phrase “bone up” is often associated with academic studies. It is commonly used by students who are preparing for exams or by professionals who are preparing for presentations. However, it can also be used in other contexts, such as learning a new skill or preparing for a job interview.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for the phrase “bone up.” These include “study,” “cram,” “memorize,” “learn by heart,” and “revise.”
Antonyms
The antonyms of “bone up” are “forget,” “neglect,” and “ignore.”
The same root words
The phrase “bone up” does not have any root words. However, it is believed to have originated from the phrase “bone and sinew,” which means strength and vitality.
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences that use the phrase “bone up”:
- I need to bone up on my math skills before the exam.
- She spent all weekend boning up on the history of art.
- He’s been boning up on his Spanish before his trip to Mexico.
- I need to bone up on the company’s policies before my job interview.
- They had to bone up on the latest technology before starting the project.