To focus sharply on a target or subject, narrowing attention to one specific point
To get closer and closer to exactly what you are looking for, like a missile finding its target
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
To direct your full attention or effort to one specific thing, especially after a process of elimination
"After weeks of investigation, detectives finally zeroed in on the most likely suspect."
We need to zero in on the issues that matter most to working families.
— Common political speech phrasing, widely attributed to various US politicians including Bill Clinton
To move physically or in terms of aim directly toward a specific target
"The missile system zeroed in on the enemy aircraft within seconds."
To move a counter or reading toward zero, as when adjusting a gunsight to the exact point of aim
To get closer and closer to exactly what you are looking for, like a missile finding its target
Almost always followed by 'on'. Common in military, sports, journalism, and business contexts. Can refer to physical targeting or mental/analytical focus.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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