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zero in on
/ˈzɪəroʊ ɪn ɒn/◆phrasal verb
focus intently on
The detective zeroed in on the suspect after finding new evidence.
The detective focused intently on the suspect after discovering new evidence.
informal
to direct full attention toward something or someone, especially to find or analyze it closely
The researchers zeroed in on the cause of the disease.
The researchers focused intently on identifying the cause of the disease.
She zeroed in on the small details that others missed.
She paid close attention to the small details that others overlooked.
Commonly used in investigative, analytical, or problem-solving contexts.
Collocations
zero in on the problemfocus intently on solving the problemzero in on the targetdirect attention toward the objective
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid literal interpretation
Do not confuse this with the literal meaning of 'zero' (the number 0). The phrase is idiomatic and always implies focused attention.
Gold Rule
Usage context
Use 'zero in on' when emphasizing the act of directing full attention to identify, analyze, or solve something.
Word Origin
The phrase originates from the early 20th century, combining 'zero' (indicating precision or direct aim) with 'in on' (suggesting targeting). It metaphorically evokes the idea of aiming a weapon or instrument precisely at a target.
Usage Notes
Used both literally (e.g., military targeting) and figuratively (e.g., analysis, investigation). More common in informal contexts.
Word Breakdown
zero
indicates precision or direct aim
rootin on
suggests targeting or focusing
prepositional phraseEnglish Dictionary