adjust

Definitions

Origin disputed. Most dictionaries trace adjust to Old French ajuster, from Latin ad- (to) + juxtā ('near, side by side') = 'to bring near, to fit together.' Folk etymology later linked the -just to jūstus ('right'), as if 'to make right.' We keep it under jur because learners long group it here, but the connection to 'law/right' is likely a later overlay, not the true source.

Why It Means This

Worth flagging for learners: the spelling makes adjust look like it belongs to the justice family, but its real ancestor is probably juxtā ('side by side' — the same root in 'juxtapose'). So 'adjust' is closer to 'fit things neatly together' than to 'make just.' Treat the jur link as a memory hook, not etymological fact.

Common Collocations

• 1.adjust to适应
• 2.adjust the settings调整设置
• 3.adjust accordingly相应调整
• 4.make adjustments作出调整

Example Sentences

• 1.

  You can adjust the height of the chair with this lever.

• 2.

  It took her months to adjust to life in a new country.

• 3.

  We may need to adjust our plans if it rains.

Easily Confused

adjust vs. adapt — adjust is usually a small, deliberate tweak (adjust the volume, adjust a strap). adapt is a deeper change to fit new conditions, often over time (species adapt; adapt to a new culture). Quick knob-turn → adjust; fundamental change → adapt.