What does “To zero in on” mean?
The slang phrase "to zero in on" means "to aim or focus on something." When someone uses this phrase, they are referring to directing their attention or efforts towards a specific target or goal.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
I need to zero in on my goals for the year.
Example
She zeroed in on the target and hit the bullseye.
Example
He zeroed in on the main issue during the meeting.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Focusing on goals or objectives
I need to zero in on my goals for the year.
She zeroed in on the target and hit the bullseye.
- 2Identifying and addressing the main issue
He zeroed in on the main issue during the meeting.
The detective zeroed in on the key suspect in the investigation.
- 3Directing attention or concentration
The teacher asked the students to zero in on the important details in the text.
I need to zero in on my studies and avoid distractions.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "to zero in on" originated from military and aviation terminology. It refers to the act of aligning a target in the sights of a weapon or aircraft. Over time, it has been adopted into everyday language to describe focusing or directing attention towards a specific goal or objective.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "to zero in on" is typically used within a sentence to provide context and clarity. It is not commonly used on its own as a standalone phrase.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "to zero in on" is not offensive. It is a common prepositional phrase used to describe focusing or aiming for something.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "to zero in on" can be used by anyone who wants to express the idea of focusing or aiming for something. It is commonly used in professional settings, academic contexts, and everyday conversations.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "to zero in on" is not specific to any particular accent or region. It is widely used in English-speaking countries and has become a part of standard English language usage.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- focus on
- concentrate on
- direct attention to
- fixate on
- home in on
Antonyms
- distract from
- divert attention from
- lose focus on
- miss the mark on
- wander away from
