# tweaking

/ˈtwikɪŋ/ (US) · /twˈiːkɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tweaking
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

Present participle of 'tweak' — making small adjustments to something to improve how it works or looks.

For teachers: Present participle of 'tweak' (verb): making fine adjustments to a system, mechanism, or piece of work to improve performance, fit, or appearance. Frequently substantivised as a gerund noun ('tweaking takes time'), but is grammatically the verb's -ing form; the headword card describes the action sense here.

## Examples

- The engine just needs a little tweaking.
- After months of development, the team spent the final week tweaking the user interface to ensure it was intuitive for new customers.
- While the core algorithm remains unchanged, constant tweaking of the weighting parameters has allowed the search engine to maintain its relevance in an increasingly competitive digital landscape.

## Usage notes

- Often functions as a gerund noun; frequently paired with 'minor' or 'final'.

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