fine-tune

fine-tune

1. Literally, to make small and/or careful adjustments to a device, instrument, or machine. If you fine-tune your amp a little bit more, I think you'd get that tone you're looking for.
2. By extension, to make small and/or careful adjustments to an idea, plan, or strategy. I think if we fine-tuned our methodology, we'd have better success with this experiment.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

fine-tune something

 
1. Lit. to make delicate adjustments in some mechanical or electronic device. It took a while to fine-tune the flute, but it was worth it.
2. Fig. to make small alterations in a plan or procedure. We need to spend some time fine-tuning the scheme, then we will seek approval.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • out of tune with (someone or something)
  • out of tune
  • tune
  • off key
  • off-key
  • in tune
  • literally
  • dance to another tune
  • carry a tune
  • tune up
References in periodicals archive
We're using it to fine-tune the performance and availability of our EMC CLARiiON SAN to even higher levels.
As authorities continue to fine-tune aviation security, some analysts suggest Internet bookings could be the next target.
Fleishman suggests that the industry might be better served by finding ways to fine-tune the needs of each level of the game.
Of special interest is a section devoted to evaluating the results of a school's marketing efforts to fine-tune its message.
reason Science Correspondent Ronald Bailey (note to self: double-check that name) reports that we're rapidly entering a "dawning age of neuroscience" that "promises not just new enhancements for Alzheimer's and other brain diseases but enhancements to improve memory, boost intellectual acumen, and fine-tune our emotional responses." Widely used drugs such as Prozac, Ritalin, and Zoloft provide a hint of what's coming--a future in which we will be able to manipulate our minds and moods more effectively than ever before.
The ability to use various conveyor modules to customize the configuration of their conveyor lines may also enable users to fine-tune production lines to fit confined cell spaces, even allowing for ergonomic considerations for operator comfort and safety.
Fire Brigades Union boss Andy Gilchrist has decided the dispute is effectively over and all that remains is further talks to fine-tune the deal.
For the first few years program officials will monitor the career paths of its graduates and fine-tune the material as required.
They were not exhorted by their parents to "be good with people," so they never had to fine-tune their communication skills.
With this kind of information in hand, you can begin to manipulate configuration parameters and fine-tune your system.
We will fine-tune [the guidelines] so we get rid of those mistakes,' he said.
reportedly enables processors of film, sheet, and coatings to fine-tune individual layers as well as accommodate changes in layer ratio, and to adjust the tuning system without removing the feedblock from the production line.
But knowing how to fine-tune our settings can save a lot of future heartache, said Toch.
"There are all kinds of reasons that you would want to be able to control or fine-tune the [release] of peptides in the binding pocket of the MHC molecules," he says.
Through an intense program of executive leadership sessions on corporate politics, changing business trends, and management techniques, the summit will provide you with new strategies to find and leverage the best business opportunities for your company and fine-tune diversity initiatives that can benefit your team.