Definition of Adjust
Quick Meaning of Adjust
To change something a little bit to make it work better or fit a situation. You can adjust the volume, temperature, position, or how you behave.
Detailed Definition of Adjust
To change or alter something slightly in order to make it fit, work better, or be suitable for a new situation.
How to Pronounce Adjust
Stress pattern: oO (2-syllable word).
Tip: Stress the second syllable: uh-JUST. The first syllable is unstressed (schwa sound). The 'j' sounds like 'j' in 'jump'.
Watch out: Some learners mispronounce it as 'add-JUST' or stress the first syllable. Correct: uh-JUST (second syllable stressed).
Origin and Etymology of Adjust
From Old French 'ajuster' (to put together). 'A-' (to) + 'juste' (close, fitting, from Latin 'iustus'). Entered English in 17th century with meaning of fine-tuning.
How to Use Adjust in a Sentence
Each example shows “adjust” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I need to adjust the mirror before driving.”
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“It took her several weeks to adjust to the new school.”
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“The researchers adjusted their methodology based on initial findings.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Adjust
Common Synonyms for Adjust
Smart Synonyms for Adjust — When to Use Each
- adapt
- Implies changing to suit new conditions or environment
- modify
- More formal; suggests deliberate structural change
- regulate
- Technical term; controlling to specific level or standard
Common Collocations with Adjust
These phrases pair with “adjust” in everyday English:
- adjust to
- adjust for
- adjust the volume
- adjust the settings
- adjust slightly
Common Mistakes When Using Adjust
Even fluent speakers slip up with “adjust”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She adjusted with the new environment.
- ✓ Correct: She adjusted to the new environment.
- Why: Use 'adjust to' not 'adjust with'. 'To' indicates adapting to a situation.
- ✗ Wrong: The student need to adjust to university life.
- ✓ Correct: The student needs to adjust to university life.
- Why: Third person singular verb requires 's': 'needs' not 'need'.
- ✗ Wrong: They adjusted the machine properly and it will worked.
- ✓ Correct: They adjusted the machine properly and it worked.
- Why: After 'will', use the base form. 'Will worked' is incorrect. Use 'will work' or 'worked' in past tense.
Other Forms of Adjust
- Noun: adjustment
- Verb: adjust
- Adjective: adjustable
- Adverb: adjustably
Frequently Asked Questions About Adjust
What is the meaning of "Adjust"?
To change something a little bit to make it work better or fit a situation. You can adjust the volume, temperature, position, or how you behave.
How do you pronounce "Adjust"?
The IPA is /əˈdʒʌst/. Stress the second syllable: uh-JUST. The first syllable is unstressed (schwa sound). The 'j' sounds like 'j' in 'jump'.
What part of speech is "Adjust"?
"Adjust" is a verb at B2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Adjust"?
Common synonyms include modify, alter, adapt.
How do you use "Adjust" in a sentence?
For example: "I need to adjust the mirror before driving."