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

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

The U.S. has had a year to fine-tune its targeting plans and selected countermeasures for the exact radars Iran uses.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

However, speaking to reporters ahead of his second state visit to the UK in September, Trump said he was "into helping" Britain fine-tune the deal.

From BBC • Jan. 18, 2026

“Were going to fine-tune the musical numbers this morning. Big ensemble numbers first, and then we’ll split into smaller groups. We break for pizza at noon, and after that, we run through the whole caboodle.”

From "Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda" by Becky Albertalli

Related Words

• adjust
• calibrate
• tweak