Word: Calibrate
Part of Speech: Verb
Basic Definition: To calibrate means to carefully measure and adjust something so that it works correctly or accurately. It often involves marking scales on instruments or making fine adjustments.
Usage Instructions:
Example Sentences:
The technician needed to calibrate the thermometer so it would give the correct temperature readings.
Before the experiment, the scientist took time to calibrate the measuring scale for accuracy.
Advanced Usage:
In more technical fields, like engineering or science, "calibrate" can refer to the process of fine-tuning complex instruments to ensure they provide precise data.
For example, a meteorologist might calibrate weather instruments to ensure they accurately measure wind speed and temperature.
Word Variants:
Calibration (noun): The process of calibrating. Example: "The calibration of the device took several hours."
Calibrated (adjective): Describing something that has been adjusted correctly. Example: "The calibrated scale showed the exact weight."
Different Meanings:
General Use: Adjusting or measuring something to ensure accuracy.
Technical Use: In fields like science, engineering, or medicine, it specifically refers to adjusting instruments or tools.
Synonyms:
Adjust
Tune
Fine-tune
Measure
Set
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While "calibrate" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, you may encounter phrases like: - "Calibrate your expectations" – meaning to adjust what you hope to achieve based on reality.
Summary:
To calibrate is to ensure that a tool or instrument is set up correctly to measure accurately.