Meaning of expression: 'to learn by heart'

[Tor4in]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #217 "American English Idioms", question 4

I know there is a lot of biology material to cover and learn but if you want to pass the exam, you have to learn it by heart. What is the meaning of 'learn it by heart?' .........

(a) fail to remember
(b) commit to memory
(c) put out of one's mind
(d) eliminate a thought or idea

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #217 "American English Idioms", answer 4

I know there is a lot of biology material to cover and learn but if you want to pass the exam, you have to learn it by heart. What is the meaning of 'learn it by heart?' commit to memory

Correct answer: (b) commit to memory
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repetition == learn it by heart?

Tor4in

[Yankee]

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I'm not quite sure what your question is, so I'll have to make an assumption.

'Repetition' does not mean 'learn by heart'. However, repetition can be used as a way to learn something by heart. In other words, repetition can help you memorize things.
.
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"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." ~ Abraham Lincoln

[Conchita]

'Rote learning' or 'to learn (a lesson, etc.) by rote' is another synonymous expression for 'to learn by heart'. It has a negative connotation and is far less common, though.

[Prezbucky]

the phrase "learn it by heart" is synonymous with "memorize it":

I'm going to learn this by heart. = I'm going to memorize this.

In case someone's already proffered a similar answer, I apologize for the overkill. hehe
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Billie Jean is not my lover. Hee.