cram for — study last-minute
phrasal verbB1IELTS 5+informalcommon
To study a lot of material intensively in a short time, usually just before an exam.
Pattern: cram for [an exam/a test]
In use
- I stayed up all night cramming for the chemistry exam.before exams
- A: Coming out tonight?
B: Can't — I'm cramming for my exam tomorrow.declining before an exam
Common mistake
✗ I crammed the exam all night.
✓ I crammed for the exam all night.
You cram FOR an exam — keep the 'for'.
Don't confuse it
'Cram for' = rushed, night-before study; 'revise' is calmer, planned review over time.