Readjust vs. Adjust — What's the Difference?

When you readjust something, you're fine-tuning or modifying it after it has already been set or adjusted. This action often comes in response to new information or conditions that weren't apparent or didn't exist during the initial adjustment. On the other hand, adjusting is the process of initially setting or changing something to fit a new condition or environment. It's the first step in making sure something functions properly or fits into its surroundings.

Readjustment is generally a reactive process, implying a need to revisit and alter a previous decision or setting due to changes in circumstances or outcomes not being as expected. Whereas adjusting is proactive, involving the initial act of calibration or alignment to ensure compatibility or functionality from the outset.

The concept of readjusting often applies in situations where ongoing monitoring and refinement are necessary, such as readjusting the focus on a camera based on changing light conditions. Adjusting, however, is more about the act of setting up the camera's focus for the first time to suit the initial lighting.

In the context of personal development or psychology, readjustment can refer to the process of adapting oneself again to changed personal circumstances or recovering from a setback. Adjusting, in contrast, might be used to describe the initial process of adapting to a new environment, like moving to a new city.

Readjusting can be seen as a more specific and sometimes more frequent action, especially in environments or situations that are dynamic and subject to frequent changes. Adjusting, however, might happen less often, usually when there's a significant shift in conditions or when first encountering a new situation or environment.