adjust something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adjust something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to making changes or modifications to an object, process, or situation to improve it or make it more suitable. Example: "Before finalizing the design, we need to adjust something to ensure it meets the client's specifications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

At one point, she put her hand inside the bodice, as though trying to adjust something.

The New York Times

In this case there were things that I would look at when I was concerned I maybe needed to adjust something.

The New York Times

"I'm going to see if I can adjust something in my personality and still be who I am but maybe try to fool everybody," he said Tuesday at a news conference at the Nets' practice facility.

The New York Times - Sports

SMITH -- Barry tends to be very open to suggestions, and he won't hesitate to adjust something if he feels it's funny, if he feels it works within the concept.

The New York Times

They let you adjust something instantly, so you don't spend time with your eyes off the road.

Forbes

The California Department of Motor Vehicles just published Waymo's most recent disengagement report, which tracks al the times that a self-driving software system must be turned off in a test cars – and most of these aren't even accidents or fender benders, but might actually entail a momentary pause to adjust something in software or quickly zap a bug.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Moore was with Erik Jansen, 30, on Saturday, when they saw a man walking and adjusting something in his waistband.

The Guardian

"Police officers got out of their cars and one of the individuals kneeled down, adjusted something in his waistband, and ran".

Vice

Notice if he is grooming or adjusting something.

WikiHow

"But I can't adjust to something at the last minute.

The New York Times - Sports

If the status quo is maintained, it will be easier to go back to what is known than it would be to adjust to something new.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "adjust something", ensure the context is clear about what is being adjusted and why. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "adjust something" without specifying what needs adjustment. Instead of saying "We need to adjust something", specify "We need to adjust the budget" or "We need to adjust the marketing strategy".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adjust something" typically functions as a verb phrase where "adjust" is the verb and "something" is the direct object. It indicates the action of making a change or modification to an unspecified item or aspect, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "adjust something" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote the act of modifying an unspecified element. According to Ludwig, this versatile phrase is found across diverse contexts like news, wikis, and professional settings. While generally neutral in tone, the specific level of formality can vary based on the context. Remember, to ensure clarity, it's best to specify what exactly needs adjustment. The related phrases provide alternatives like "modify it" or "tweak it" for a more nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

modify it

Focuses on the act of changing something, often to improve it.

tweak it

Suggests making small, precise adjustments.

alter it

Implies a more significant change than "tweak".

revise it

Suggests reviewing and making necessary changes, often in written material.

recalibrate it

Emphasizes restoring accuracy or proper function through adjustment.

fine-tune it

Highlights the process of making very precise adjustments for optimal performance.

reconfigure it

Suggests changing the arrangement or settings of something.

rework it

Implies significant changes or improvements.

reshape it

Focuses on changing the form or structure of something.

correct it

Emphasizes fixing errors or inaccuracies.

FAQs

How can I use "adjust something" in a sentence?

You can use "adjust something" when you need to make a change or modification. For example, "I need to "adjust something" in my schedule to accommodate the meeting" or "The software allows you to "adjust something" easily".

What are some alternatives to "adjust something"?

Alternatives include "modify it", "tweak it", or "alter it", depending on the context and the extent of the change.

Is it better to say "adjust something" or "make an adjustment"?

Both are correct, but "adjust something" is more direct. "Make an adjustment" is more formal. Choose the one that best fits the tone of your writing.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "adjust something"?

It might be inappropriate if the adjustment is unethical or illegal. In such cases, rephrase to avoid implying endorsement of questionable actions.