adjust

The word “adjust” means to change something slightly so it works better or fits new circumstances. In plain terms, to change or fine-tune something, or to get used to a new situation.

“Adjust” is pronounced uh-JUHST (/əˈd͡ʒʌst/ in IPA).

Here is “adjust” used in a sentence: “She adjusted the thermostat before going to bed.”

“Adjust” is a verb.

The word “adjust” comes from Latin. From Old French ajuster, ultimately tied to Latin iustus ("correct, exact") — the sense of making something precise or "just right.".

“Adjust” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.

“Adjust” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to change something slightly so it works better or fits new circumstances.

"Adjust" means to make small changes so something works better or fits new circumstances — you adjust a mirror or a schedule. "Adapt" usually implies more substantial change to suit a new purpose or environment, such as adapting a novel for film or adapting to life in a new country.

Both are correct but mean different things. "Adjust something" is transitive and means to alter it slightly ("adjust the volume"), while "adjust to something" means to get used to new circumstances ("it took weeks to adjust to the time difference").

"Adjust" suggests small, fine-scale changes made so something fits or works better, often restoring a correct setting. "Modify" is broader and can cover more substantial alterations to design or structure, without the sense of tuning something toward a proper fit.