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zero in on

to focus attention on

In Phrasal Verbs

In more detail

to aim or direct something carefully at a target; to focus attention on something specific and important

Examples

• The detective decided to zero in on the suspect's alibi.
• Our team needs to zero in on improving customer service this quarter.

How to use zero in on

Zero in on is an idiomatic phrasal verb meaning to identify and concentrate on something specific, often implying narrowing down from a broader scope. It is commonly used in both professional and everyday contexts when discussing problem-solving, analysis, or directing effort toward a particular goal. The metaphor originates from adjusting gun sights or targeting systems to reach a goal precisely.

Common phrases

• zero in on the problem
• zero in on the issue
• zero in on the target
• zero in on what matters
• zero in on the key point

Synonyms

focus on · hone in on · target · concentrate on · pinpoint

Opposites

ignore · overlook · disregard

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use the variant 'hone in on' as if it were interchangeable, but 'hone' means to sharpen, not to target; 'zero in on' is the standard phrasal verb for this meaning.

Nearby in Phrasal Verbs

work out, wind up, wrap up, back out, brush up on, chip in

Keep going

How to remember the words you read · Spaced repetition, explained