dial it in
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To set up in a perfect or complete way.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
The mechanic dialed in the bicycle before the customer picked it up.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To give a lackluster, uninspired, or timid performance (especially when capable of doing better); to phone it in.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “dial it in” mean?
To set up in a perfect or complete way.
Is “dial it in” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.