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tune up

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tune something up

Fig. to adjust an engine to run the best and most efficiently. You need to tune this engine up. Please tune up this engine so it will run more economically.

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tune up

[for one or more musicians] to bring their instruments into tune. You could hear the orchestra behind the curtain, tuning up. We have to tune up before the concert.

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tune up (for something)

to prepare for something The coach feels confident that the team is tuned up for tonight's game.

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tune up something

also tune something up

to adjust an engine or vehicle so that it works as well as possible I haven't tuned up my car in two years. The motorcycle isn't running right, but she can't afford to tune it up.

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tune up

Adjust machinery so it is in proper condition, as in I took the car in to be tuned up. [Early 1900s]

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tune up

v.

1. To adjust some musical instrument to a desired pitch or key: She tunes up the violin for the students. He tuned his cello up before practicing. The orchestra tuned up before the concert.

2. To adjust some machine so as to put it into proper condition: The mechanic tuned up the car. I tune the motor up every few months.

3. To prepare oneself for some activity: The team tuned up for the match with a scrimmage.

See also: tune, up