1 C1 idiomatic informal
To make deliberate, incremental adjustments in order to move something closer to a desired state or outcome.
"The UX team is dialling the design towards greater simplicity with each iteration."
inseparable
dial towards
C1 informal inseparable transitive
To adjust or shift something incrementally in the direction of a particular quality, outcome, or goal.
In plain English
To carefully adjust something to move it closer to a particular result or goal, like turning a dial.
What does "dial towards" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To turn a dial in the direction of a specific setting.
Actually means
To carefully adjust something to move it closer to a particular result or goal, like turning a dial.
Usage tip
A relatively modern, informal figurative use. Often found in technology, design, or coaching contexts where deliberate incremental adjustment is described. Not widely used; most speakers would prefer 'lean towards' or 'move towards'.
Words that pair with "dial towards"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
simplicity balance perfection accuracy the correct setting improvement
How to conjugate "dial towards"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
dial towards
I/you/we/they
3rd person
dials towards
he/she/it
Past simple
dialed towards
yesterday
Past participle
dialed towards
have + pp
-ing form
dialing towards
continuous
Hear "dial towards" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "dial towards" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "dial towards"
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