tune-up

American  

[toon-uhp, tyoon-] / ˈtunˌʌp, ˈtyun- /

noun

1. an adjustment, as of a motor, to improve working order or condition.

   The car needs a tune-up badly.

2. Informal.  a preparatory activity or warm-up, as before a contest or game.

   The track meet served as a tune-up for the Olympics.

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tune up British  

verb

1. to adjust (a musical instrument) to a particular pitch, esp a standard one

2. (esp of an orchestra or other instrumental ensemble) to tune (instruments) to a common pitch

3. (tr) to adjust (an engine) in (a car, etc) to improve performance

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noun

1. adjustments made to an engine to improve its performance

tune up Idioms  

1. Adjust machinery so it is in proper condition, as in I took the car in to be tuned up. [Early 1900s]

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Etymology

Origin of tune-up

First recorded in 1945–50; noun use of verb phrase tune up

Example Sentences

So does what appears to be a money-making tune-up fight against Paul undermine how seriously he will be taken in future?

From BBC

They get a good tune-up for the Division 1 playoffs with a matchup against Orange Lutheran on Sept. 18, a team they lost to last season 33-26.

From Los Angeles Times

Warren, who has promoted Fury since his comeback to boxing in 2018 after a two-year hiatus from the sport, dismissed suggestions the Morecambe fighter will take a tune-up fight.

From BBC

Usually, a fighter coming back from retirement eases into the sport with tune-up fights.

From BBC

Fury might take a tune-up or he might dive straight in.

From BBC