Definition

1. Noun:
   • The act or process of making small changes to something to improve it or make it fit better: "adjustment" refers to the action of altering or modifying something slightly to achieve a desired fit, alignment, or function.
   • A small change made to achieve such a fit or improvement: It can also refer to the change itself that is made.
   • The process of adapting or becoming accustomed to new conditions: It describes the psychological or behavioral process of getting used to a new situation or environment.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The mechanic made a fine adjustment to the engine's timing. (A small change to improve function)
  • After moving to a new country, a period of adjustment is normal. (The process of adapting to new conditions)
  • The tailor made a quick adjustment to the waist of the trousers. (A small alteration for a better fit)

Advanced Usage

• "to make an adjustment": to perform the act of changing something slightly.
  • We need to make an adjustment to the budget to account for the new expenses.
• "period of adjustment": a time during which one adapts to new circumstances.
  • The merger will require a significant period of adjustment for all employees.
• "minor adjustment": a very small or insignificant change.
  • The plan is sound; it only needs a few minor adjustments.

Variants and Related Words

• Adjust (verb): to change something slightly to make it fit, work better, or be more suitable.
  • Please adjust your seat before we start driving.
• Adjustable (adjective): capable of being changed or adapted.
  • The desk has an adjustable height.
• Adjuster (noun): a person or device that makes adjustments, especially in insurance.
  • The insurance adjuster assessed the damage to the car.

Synonyms

• Modification: a change, often more significant than an adjustment.
• Adaptation: the process of changing to suit new conditions.
• Alteration: a change, typically to a structure or garment.
• Calibration: the fine adjustment of a measuring instrument.

Related Phrases

• Adjust to: (phrasal verb) to become familiar with or accustomed to a new situation.
  • It took him weeks to adjust to his new routine.
• Adjust for: (phrasal verb) to change something to account for a particular factor.
  • The figures have been adjusted for inflation.

Related Idioms

• Make the necessary adjustments: to do what is required to adapt or correct a situation.
  • The team failed initially but quickly made the necessary adjustments and won the next game.
• A slight adjustment of the facts: a euphemism for distorting or misrepresenting the truth.
  • His story was mostly true, with just a slight adjustment of the facts to make him look better.

Noun

1. an amount added or deducted on the basis of qualifying circumstances
   • an allowance for profit
2. the process of adapting to something (such as environmental conditions)
3. the act of adjusting something to match a standard
4. the act of making something different (as e.g. the size of a garment)
5. making or becoming suitable; adjusting to circumstances