The phrasal verb 'zone in' is primarily used in informal contexts, often found in spoken language and casual written communication. It is synonymous with focusing intently on a particular task or activity, similar in meaning to 'zero in on' but with a slightly more relaxed tone. The usage of 'zone in' is common in conversations among friends, family, and in informal settings such as online articles or social media posts where the need for precision in formal language is less critical. It can be used to describe situations where someone is dedicating their full attention to a specific subject, such as 'He really zoned in during the final minutes of the game.' The verb is particularly popular in contexts involving concentration and mindfulness, often illustrating the act of mentally narrowing one's focus. Although less common, it occasionally appears in informal business or creative settings, reflecting a more dynamic approach to problem-solving or innovation.
B2
UpperIntermediate
1. To concentrate intensely on a single task, activity, or piece of information, often ignoring everything else.
She was able to zone in on her work despite the noise around her.
When I zone in on studying, I manage to absorb a lot of information quickly.
During meditation, try to zone in on your breathing to clear your mind.
He managed to zone in on his presentation despite the technical difficulties.
Once you zone in and block out distractions, your productivity increases.