Definition

1. Verb (phrasal verb):
   • To study intensively, especially in a short period of time before a test or exam: The phrase "mug up" means to learn or memorize facts or information quickly and thoroughly, often through concentrated effort just prior to an assessment.

Usage

• "Mug up" is an informal, primarily British English phrasal verb. It is used to describe the act of cramming or revising intensely.
• It is typically followed by the preposition "on" when specifying the subject matter.
• It is often used in contexts related to academic study or preparing for a specific evaluation.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can sometimes imply a superficial or last-minute effort to memorize facts, rather than deep, long-term learning.
• It can be used in continuous tenses (e.g., "mugging up") to emphasize the ongoing, intensive nature of the activity.

Variants and Related Words

• Cram (verb): To study intensively over a short period. (More common in American English).
• Bone up (on) (phrasal verb): To study or review a subject intensively. (Synonymous with "mug up").
• Swot up (on) (phrasal verb): Another British informal term meaning to study hard.
• Revise (verb): To review material previously studied. (A more formal and general term).

Synonyms

• Cram
• Bone up
• Swot up
• Review intensively

Phrasal Verbs

• Mug up on: This is the standard construction of the phrasal verb. The preposition "on" introduces the specific topic being studied.
  • You should mug up on the company's history before the interview.

Verb

1. study intensively, as before an exam
   • I had to bone up on my Latin verbs before the final exam