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Adjust: meaning, definitions and examples

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adjust

 

[əˈdʒʌst ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

settings

To change or alter something slightly in order to make it better fit a particular situation or purpose.

Synonyms

adapt, alter, modify, tweak.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
adjust

Used when making a small change to improve or correct something.

  • He adjusted his tie in the mirror.
  • Can you adjust the seat height for me?
adapt

Used when someone or something changes to fit new conditions or a new environment.

  • She had to adapt to the new work culture.
  • Animals adapt to their habitats over time.
modify

Used when making a partial or minor change to something to improve it or make it more acceptable.

  • We need to modify the software to meet client needs.
  • The teacher had to modify the lesson plan.
tweak

Used when making slight adjustments to improve the functionality or performance of something.

  • The engineer tweaked the machine settings.
  • You might need to tweak your strategy a bit.
alter

Used when making a significant change to something, especially in appearance or character.

  • She decided to alter her wedding dress.
  • You need to alter this document before submission.

Examples of usage

  • You can adjust the volume using the knob on the side of the speaker.
  • Please adjust the temperature on the thermostat to make it warmer in here.
  • He adjusted his schedule to accommodate the new project deadlines.
Context #2 | Verb

attitude

To change one's opinion, behavior, or way of thinking in response to new information or circumstances.

Synonyms

change, modify, reconsider, revise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
adjust

Use when making small changes to improve or correct something.

  • She adjusted her chair to be more comfortable
  • He adjusted the settings on his camera for better light
change

Use for making something different, often in a noticeable way.

  • She decided to change her hairstyle
  • The weather changes frequently here
revise

Use for changing something already written or planned to correct or improve it.

  • She revised her essay before submitting it
  • The company had to revise its budget plan
reconsider

Use when thinking again about a decision or opinion, often with the possibility of changing it.

  • After hearing both sides, he decided to reconsider his choice
  • Can you reconsider your stance on this issue?
modify

Use when making partial or minor changes to something to improve it or make it more suitable.

  • You should modify your diet to include more vegetables
  • They modified the software to fix the bug

Examples of usage

  • After hearing both sides of the story, she adjusted her stance on the issue.
  • He adjusted his expectations after realizing the complexity of the task.
Context #3 | Noun

finance

A settlement of accounts in which the differences on each side are made equal.

Synonyms

compensation, correction, reconciliation, settlement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
adjust

To change something slightly to make it more suitable or accurate; often used in technical or mechanical contexts.

  • She had to adjust the mirror before driving
  • The mechanic will adjust the engine
settlement

An official agreement intended to resolve a dispute or conflict; can also refer to an established community; often used in legal or historical contexts.

  • The two parties reached a settlement
  • The first settlements in America were along the coast
compensation

Something, typically money, awarded to someone in recognition of loss, suffering, or injury; often used in legal and employment contexts.

  • He received compensation for the injury
  • The company offers good compensation
correction

A change to make something right or improve accuracy; often used in academic, professional, or technical contexts.

  • The teacher made a correction to the student's essay
  • The report needed several corrections
reconciliation

The restoration of friendly relations or the process of making two different ideas coexist peacefully; often used in social or personal contexts.

  • Their reconciliation took place after years of estrangement
  • The reconciliation of these two theories was difficult

Examples of usage

  • The accountant made an adjustment to balance the company's books.
  • The final adjustment ensured that all expenses were accounted for.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Middle French 'ajuster,' which means to fit or join.
  • In Latin, 'ad' means 'to' and 'justare' means 'to make just or right,' reflecting the idea of making changes.
  • The term first appeared in English around the late 15th century, signifying the process of bringing things into harmony.

Science

  • In psychology, adjusting refers to how individuals manage changes in their environment or life, crucial for mental well-being.
  • In ecology, organisms adjust to their environments to survive, demonstrating important adaptability.
  • In mechanics, adjustment often refers to calibrating instruments, ensuring accuracy in measurements.

Pop Culture

  • Reality TV shows often emphasize contestants needing to adjust to new environments and pressures throughout challenges.
  • Adjusting popular songs by remixing them is a common trend in music, allowing artists to reach new audiences.
  • Many self-help books focus on strategies to adjust one’s mindset for success, enhancing personal growth narratives.

Education

  • Teachers frequently adjust their methods to cater to different learning styles in the classroom, ensuring inclusivity.
  • Educational technology promotes adjustments in learning pace, allowing students to progress at their speed.
  • Adjustments in curriculum can help address evolving societal needs and prepare students better for the future.

Technology

  • In user interface design, adjustments are made to improve user experience, emphasizing ease of navigation.
  • Software updates often include adjustments to enhance security features and software performance.
  • In photography, adjusting settings like exposure or focus can dramatically change the quality of an image.

Translations

Translations of the word "adjust" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ajustar

🇮🇳 समायोजित करना (samāyojit karnā)

🇩🇪 anpassen

🇮🇩 menyesuaikan

🇺🇦 налаштовувати

🇵🇱 dostosować

🇯🇵 調整する (ちょうせいする, chōsei suru)

🇫🇷 ajuster

🇪🇸 ajustar

🇹🇷 ayarlamak

🇰🇷 조정하다 (jojeonghada)

🇸🇦 ضبط (ḍabṭ)

🇨🇿 přizpůsobit

🇸🇰 prispôsobiť

🇨🇳 调整 (tiáozhěng)

🇸🇮 prilagoditi

🇮🇸 aðlaga

🇰🇿 бейімдеу (beyımdeu)

🇬🇪 გადაწერა (gadats'era)

🇦🇿 tənzimləmək

🇲🇽 ajustar

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,937, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.