English Expression · Intermediate
harden up
To tighten up a sailboat's sheets in order to prevent luffing
Pronunciation: say harden up
Meaning
To tighten up a sailboat's sheets in order to prevent luffing.
Example
The skipper told the crew to harden up the jib as the wind shifted.
The skipper told the crew to harden up the jib as the wind shifted.
Practice tips
- Practice harden up out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.