calibrar
1. to adjust or check an instrument so that it gives accurate readings
The technician needs to calibrate the scale before measuring the chemicals.
O técnico precisa calibrar a balança antes de medir os químicos.
2. to adjust something carefully to achieve a desired effect or result
She calibrated her approach to match the client's expectations.
Ela calibrou sua abordagem para corresponder às expectativas do cliente.
3. to determine or mark the graduations on a measuring instrument
Engineers calibrated the thermometer against a standard reference.
Os engenheiros calibraram o termômetro contra uma referência padrão.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, 'calibrate' is primarily used in technical, scientific, and increasingly in business/management settings. The figurative use (adjusting strategy or approach) has become more common in corporate environments in both countries.
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