# brush up

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/brush-up
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To review; to improve an existing but rusty or underdeveloped skill.

## Examples

- I need to brush up on my Spanish before the trip.
- Since I have not played the piano in years, I should brush up on my technique before the performance.
- The professor decided to brush up on his knowledge of ancient history before delivering the guest lecture to the graduate students.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.