tinkering

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

While we spend a great deal of time in the U.S. talking about fixing what’s wrong with healthcare, we often end up just tinkering around the edges rather than fundamentally changing things.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 27, 2026

Fannie and Freddie are the backbone of the U.S. mortgage-finance system, which makes any tinkering with their structure especially risky.

From Barron's • Jun. 16, 2026

There’s a reason that dad hobbies are all chores: woodworking, yard work, grilling, tinkering.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

Huang says she’s looking to build a new system that serves every Angeleno, rather than tinkering with the one that exists.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

He spent several precious days happily tinkering with his engine, wasting lovely, almost warm, oyster weather.

From "Jacob Have I Loved" by Katherine Paterson