tunable

The musician adjusts the tunable knob on his synthesizer.

Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Capable of being tuned: "tunable" describes something that can be adjusted to a desired pitch, frequency, or state, especially in musical instruments, electronic devices, or systems.
   • Harmonious or melodious: In a broader sense, it can refer to something that produces or is capable of producing a pleasing sound or harmony.

Usage Examples

• Capable of being tuned:

  • This guitar has a tunable bridge that allows for precise intonation. (The bridge can be adjusted to make the strings sound correct.)
  • The radio is tunable to a wide range of frequencies. (The radio can be adjusted to receive different stations.)

• Harmonious or melodious:

  • The choir's voices were tunable and blended beautifully. (Their voices were melodious and well-matched.)

Advanced Usage

• "tunable parameter": In engineering or computing, a variable that can be adjusted to optimize performance.

  • The software includes several tunable parameters for fine-tuning the algorithm. (Adjustable settings that improve the program's function.)

• "tunable laser": A laser whose wavelength can be adjusted across a range.

  • The laboratory uses a tunable laser for spectroscopy experiments. (A laser with changeable wavelength for scientific analysis.)

Variants and Related Words

• Tune (v/n): to adjust to a desired pitch or state; a melody or state of adjustment.
  • She needs to tune her violin before the concert. (Adjust the strings to proper pitch.)
• Tuning (n): the act or process of adjusting something to a desired state.
  • The piano requires regular tuning to stay in pitch. (Adjustment of notes to correct frequency.)
• Tunability (n): the quality of being adjustable or capable of being tuned.
  • The tunability of the device allows it to work in different environments. (The ability to adjust its settings.)

Synonyms

• Adjustable: capable of being changed to fit different conditions.
  • The seat is adjustable for comfort. (Can be moved or modified.)
• Modifiable: able to be changed or altered.
  • The settings are modifiable by the user. (Can be adjusted.)
• Harmonious: producing a pleasing combination of sounds.
  • The orchestra produced a harmonious melody. (Melodious and balanced.)

Phrasal Verbs

• Tune in: to adjust a device to receive a specific signal or broadcast.
  • Please tune in to the news channel at 6 PM. (Set the radio or TV to that station.)
• Tune up: to adjust or improve the performance of a machine, especially a musical instrument or vehicle.
  • The mechanic will tune up the engine for better fuel efficiency. (Adjust and optimize the engine.)

Related Idioms

• Tune out: to ignore or stop paying attention.
  • He tends to tune out during long meetings. (Stop listening or focusing.)
• Change one's tune: to alter one's opinion or attitude.
  • After hearing the facts, she changed her tune and agreed with us. (Adopted a different viewpoint.)