zero in on

Idioms  

1. Aim precisely at a target, as in They zeroed in on the last snipers . [c. 1940]

2. Direct one's attention to, concentrate or focus on, as in We must zero in on the exact combination of ingredients , or The whole class zeroed in on the new assignment . This usage transfers aiming a firearm to directing one's attention. [Mid-1900s]

3. Converge on, close in on, as in The children zeroed in on the electric train display . [Mid-1900s]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

zero in on

Season 3 “finally starts to zero in on what feels like it might be the show’s core story,” explains Slate’s Sam Adams.

From Slate ● Jun. 22, 2026

But some companies to zero in on are those using AI, not building it.

From Barron's ● Apr. 28, 2026

They noted they would zero in on demand for new products, as Nike tries to sell more running gear and women’s clothing and get more sales out of its collaboration with Kim Kardashian’s Skims brand.

From MarketWatch ● Mar. 29, 2026

Then resist the urge to zero in on the option that confirms your own instincts.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 21, 2026

I keep running and zero in on that camo trucker hat.

From "The Benefits of Being an Octopus" by Ann Braden

Related Words

• address
• design
• direct
• focus
• intend
• mean
• plan
• propose
• target
• try
• want