fine-tune

American  

[fahyn-toon, -tyoon] / ˈfaɪnˈtun, -ˈtyun /

verb (used with object)

fine-tuned, fine-tuning

1. to tune (a radio or television receiver) to produce the optimum reception for the desired station or channel by adjusting a control knob or bar.

2. tune.

3. to make minor adjustments in so as to produce stability, improvement, or the precise results desired.

   to fine-tune the nation's economy.

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fine-tune British  

verb

1. (tr) to make fine adjustments to (something) in order to obtain optimum performance

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Other Word Forms

• fine-tuner
  noun

Etymology

Origin of fine-tune

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

By adjusting the ligands attached to the central metal atom, chemists can fine tune how the catalyst behaves.

From Science Daily • Feb. 27, 2026

By clarifying how to fine tune the gyroscope's operating parameters, the research offers practical guidance for building more flexible and efficient wave energy systems.

From Science Daily • Feb. 18, 2026

Diplomats say the alliance is looking to fine tune its rules of engagement for dealing with Russian incursions and iron out different approaches between member states.

From Barron's • Oct. 15, 2025

A former NFL quarterback and private quarterbacks coach for 3DQB, he has helped fine tune some of the best passers in the sport, from Tom Brady and Drew Brees to Matthew Stafford and Justin Herbert.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 8, 2025

Gow has published a variation of this fine tune as his own composition, which he calls “The Princess Augusta.”

From The Complete Works of Robert Burns: Containing his Poems, Songs, and Correspondence. With a New Life of the Poet, and Notices, Critical and Biographical by Allan Cunningham by Burns, Robert

Related Words

• adjust
• calibrate
• tweak