zero in
B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To get closer and closer to exactly what you are looking for, like a missile finding its target
Literal meaning: To move a counter or reading toward zero, as when adjusting a gunsight to the exact point of aim
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
neutral
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
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 neutral
To move physically or in terms of aim directly toward a specific target
"The missile system zeroed in on the enemy aircraft within seconds."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Almost always followed by 'on'. Common in military, sports, journalism, and business contexts. Can refer to physical targeting or mental/analytical focus.
Commonly used with
target problem location issue cause suspect
Forms
Base
zero in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
zeros in
he/she/it
Past simple
zeroed in
yesterday
Past participle
zeroed in
have + pp
-ing form
zeroing in
continuous
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Synonyms
focus on hone in on pinpoint target home in on narrow down to
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