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homing in on
/ˈhoʊmɪŋ ɪn ɒn/◆phrasal verb
to focus on or target something precisely
The detective was homing in on the suspect's alibi.
The detective was getting closer to uncovering the truth about the suspect's alibi.
informal
to move or direct attention toward a specific target with increasing precision
The missile system homed in on the enemy aircraft.
The missile system locked onto and tracked the enemy aircraft.
After weeks of research, the team homed in on the root cause of the problem.
After weeks of research, the team identified the exact cause of the problem.
Often used in both literal (e.g., technology, navigation) and figurative (e.g., problem-solving, investigation) contexts.
Collocations
homing in on a targetfocusing precisely on a specific objectivehoming in on a solutiongetting closer to finding an answer
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Literal vs. Figurative Use
Use 'homing in on' for both literal (e.g., missiles, navigation) and figurative (e.g., investigations, problem-solving) contexts.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While useful, overusing 'homing in on' can make writing repetitive. Vary with synonyms like 'zeroing in on' or 'focusing on'.
Word Origin
Derived from the concept of homing (returning to a specific location or target) combined with the preposition 'in on' to indicate precision.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in both literal (e.g., technology, navigation) and figurative (e.g., problem-solving, investigation) contexts. Avoid using in overly formal writing.
Word Breakdown
homing
returning to or targeting a specific location
rootin on
toward or into a specific target
prepositional phraseEnglish Dictionary