pull up (one's) socks

To make a redoubled effort; to make a sincere attempt to improve. After that abysmal grade on my midterm exam, I'm going to have to really pull up my socks if I want to pass math this year. John, if you don't start pulling up your socks, we're going to have to give your job to someone else.

Common Names:

Name	Pronounced	Usage
Vina	-	Indonesian
Hokulani	-	Hawaiian
Asturias	[ə'stuəri:əs]
Sushil	-	Indian, Hindi, Marathi, Nepali
Makariy	-	Russian (Archaic)
EibhlÍN	ie-LEEN, IE-leen, EV-leen, EV-e-leen, AYV-leen	Irish