fine-tune

American

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

verb (used with object)

fine-tuned, fine-tuning

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

to fine-tune the nation's economy.

fine-tune British

verb

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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

fine-tuner noun

Etymology

Origin of fine-tune

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But at the same time, she warns that researchers need to continue to fine-tune the definition of the term as the evolving science dictates.

From Slate • Mar. 29, 2026

And while you’re at it, fine-tune your deductions as well:

From MarketWatch • Mar. 16, 2026

"These food-sharing feedback loops allow colonies to fine-tune their workforce," Professor Lo said.

From Science Daily • Jan. 31, 2026

The government has given a grace period of at least one year to fine-tune the rules.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 23, 2026

We conducted focus groups to test-market our branding for the project, enlisting the pro bono help of PR professionals to fine-tune the message.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023