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Phrasal verbs "zero in on" vs "zero out"

Differences between zero in on and zero out

While both phrasal verbs contain the word 'zero', they have different meanings. Zero in on means to focus on something intently or to aim precisely at a target. On the other hand, zero out means to reduce something to zero or to eliminate it completely.

Meanings and Definitions: zero in on vs zero out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Zero in on

  • 1Direct or focus attention on.

    The police have ZEROED IN ON the man they believe to be responsible for the murder.

  • 2Head for, move towards.

    The hurricane is ZEROING IN ON Florida.

Zero out

  • 1Cut off funding for a project.

    The debt was ZEROED OUT by the department.

  • 2Reduce to zero, cancel, remove.

    The entry was ZEROED OUT of the database.

Usage Examples: zero in on, zero out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

zero in on

Example

The detective zeroed in on the main suspect.

Example

She zeroes in on the most important details of the case.

zero out

Example

The manager decided to zero out the budget for the project.

Example

She zeroes out the old data before starting a new analysis.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Zero in on

focus on

To concentrate on something and give it your full attention.

Example

I need to focus on my studies if I want to pass my exams.

home in on

To move towards a target or goal with accuracy and precision.

Example

The missile was able to home in on the target and hit it accurately.

fixate on

To become obsessed or overly focused on something.

Example

She tends to fixate on small details and misses the bigger picture.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Zero out

eliminate completely

To remove or get rid of something entirely.

Example

The company decided to eliminate completely the use of plastic in their packaging.

reduce to nothing

To decrease or diminish something until it no longer exists.

Example

The fire reduced the building to nothing but ashes.

wipe out

To eradicate or destroy something completely.

Example

The tsunami wiped out entire villages along the coast.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “zero”

Differences in zero in on vs zero out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: zero in on or zero out?

In everyday conversation, zero in on is more common than zero out. This is because zero in on is used in a variety of contexts such as sports, business, and personal relationships. Zero out, however, is more specific and is mainly used in financial or technical contexts.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of zero in on and zero out

Zero in on and zero out are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, zero out may be used in more formal settings such as finance or accounting.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of zero in on and zero out

The tone of zero in on is usually focused and determined, while the tone of zero out is more final and decisive.

zero in on & zero out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Zero in on

Synonyms

  • target
  • focus on
  • concentrate on
  • hone in on
  • direct attention to
  • aim at
  • narrow down

Antonyms

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