B2verbworkeducation
US/hoʊn/
UK/həʊn/
to improve a skill or ability slowly by practicing it
In context
She spent years honing her writing skills before she published a book.
The coach helped the team hone their strategy for the final.
He honed his argument until it was clear and short.
Words that go with hone
verb + noun
- hone your skillsThe course lets you hone your skills in a real office.
- hone their craftYoung actors hone their craft in small theaters.
- hone your writingKeeping a blog is a good way to hone your writing.
verb + preposition
- honed to perfectionHer presentation was honed to perfection after weeks of practice.
adverb + adjective
- finely honedHe gave a finely honed speech.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
I want to hone up my English skills.Correct: I want to hone my English skills.