# buff up on

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/buff-up-on
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to quickly study or practice something so you can remember it or improve your skills.

For teachers: to refresh or improve one's knowledge of a specific subject, typically in preparation for an imminent event or evaluation.

## Examples

- I need to buff up on my French before the trip.
- She spent the weekend trying to buff up on the new software before the training session on Monday.
- The candidate spent several weeks attempting to buff up on international trade policy to ensure a polished performance during the televised debate.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I buffed up my history." but "I buffed up on my history." — the preposition 'on' is required to connect the action to the subject being studied.

## Usage notes

- Usually followed by a specific subject or skill as the object.
- Teaching tip: compare with 'brush up on' (more common) or 'polish up'; the 'buff' metaphor relates to shining a surface to make it look better.

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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.