tune up
phrasal verb·1 sense·particle up
Meanings
Adjust an engine or instrument so it works at its best
Why “up”? Something is made neater, better-looking, more impressive, or more appealing.
“The mechanic tuned up the engine.”
“The piano tuner tuned up the old piano.”
Don't confuse with
Tune up means adjust an engine or instrument so it works at its best. Tune in means begin watching or listening.
Test yourself
“The mechanic tuned up the engine.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
tune in
A contrast learners often mix up
Begin watching or listening
build up
Same up pattern: making better
Gradually increase in amount, strength or intensity; Develop or strengthen something over time; Make someone or something seem more important or impressive than they are; Encourage or strengthen someone emotionally; Create momentum towards a moment or event
do up
Same up pattern: making better
Fasten a button, zip or buckle; Improve a room or property by repairing or decorating it; Wrap or tie something into a neat package; Style or arrange one's hair or appearance
dress up
Same up pattern: making better
Put on smart or formal clothes; Wear a costume, often imitating someone or something; Make something look more attractive or impressive than it is
fix up
Same up pattern: making better
Repair or improve the condition of something
patch up
Same up pattern: making better
Repair something quickly or restore a relationship
polish up
Same up pattern: making better
Improve a skill by extra practice
smarten up
Same up pattern: making better
Make yourself look neater or more presentable
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