Phrases & Expressions

To participate in or enter a competition or activity.

• She decided to go in for the race.
• He doesn't go in for that kind of music.

To memorize completely.

• I learned the poem by heart.
• Learn the formulas by heart.

to learn words by heart

• He memorizes 10 new words a day.
• Memorizing words is boring.

To begin studying seriously, especially for an exam.

• Ted partied all weekend; on Sunday night he decided it was time to hit the books.
• Hit the books! I know you have a test tomorrow.

To stay awake all night to study or finish a task.

• Ted pulled an all-nighter studying for his chemistry test and ended up falling asleep in class.
• I have a 20-page paper due tomorrow and haven't even started — I guess I'll be pulling an all-nighter.

Used to mean very successfully, especially in a test or competition.

• She passed the exam with flying colours.
• He came through the interview with flying colours.