dial it in
Perfect the adjustment
To dial something in is to adjust it precisely until it's exactly right—from the original sense of fine-tuning equipment by turning a dial.
Once you dial in the settings, the espresso is perfect every time.
But dial it in has developed a contradictory slang meaning: to perform with minimal effort, going through the motions without real engagement.
He's just dialing it in at work until retirement.
Context usually makes clear which sense applies.
- optimizeMake maximally effective
- tweakMinor adjustment
- calibrateAdjust for accuracy
- fine-tuneAdjust for optimal performance
- tune upOptimize for performance
enhance · perfect · customize · modify · phone it in · zero in · adjust · align · refine · nail · nail down · improve · configure · focus · streamline · target · synchronize · concentrate
- learning processbeginner stage, trial and error, learn by doing, orientation, onboarding
dial it ingo all out
Commit completely, withhold nothing
give 110% · go the extra mile · leave it all on the field · go above and beyond · hustle
dial it inwing it
Act without preparation
improvise · ad-lib · play it by ear · freestyle · extemporize