ENGLISH
REFERENCE

adjusting

v.
B1 Intermediate US //əˈdʒəstɪŋ// UK //ɐdʒˈʌstɪŋ// ad·just·ing

v. to change something slightly so that it works better or fits a new situation. You might do this to your clothes, your schedule, or a machine.

v. to alter something slightly to achieve a desired fit, appearance, or function; to adapt to new circumstances. Transitive when modifying an object; intransitive when describing personal adaptation.


SIMPLE

He is adjusting his tie in the mirror.

CONTEXTUAL

The technician is currently adjusting the machine settings to ensure the output meets the new quality standards.

COMPLEX

After moving to a different climate, she found herself slowly adjusting to the shorter daylight hours and the significant drop in evening temperatures.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

When used transitively, it takes a direct object; when used intransitively for personal adaptation, it typically takes the preposition 'to'.

Pitfall

I am adjusting at the new jobI am adjusting to the new jobWhen describing the process of getting used to a situation, the verb requires the preposition 'to'.

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