set the tone
idiom
: to establish a quality, feeling, or attitude by a manner of speaking or writing
Her lighthearted question set the tone for the rest of the interview.
Examples of set the tone in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In a game where the Broncos were a double-digit underdog and at a clear talent disadvantage, Boise State had a chance to set the tone and get some early momentum.
—
Stewart Mandel, The Athletic, 31 Dec. 2024
In ways large and small, the diminutive Hollywood veteran set the tone.
—Rob Marriott, VIBE.com, 30 Dec. 2024
Democrats are gearing up for two northern Virginia-area special elections in the state Senate and House of Delegates next month that could set the tone for what is expected to be a consequential election year in the commonwealth.
—Julia Manchester, The Hill, 24 Dec. 2024
That same dazzling energy that guided the team to victory almost 12 years ago once again set the tone for the dominant 31-2 victory over the Texans Wednesday.
—Todd Karpovich, Baltimore Sun, 26 Dec. 2024
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Stewart Mandel, The Athletic, 31 Dec. 2024
In ways large and small, the diminutive Hollywood veteran set the tone.
—Rob Marriott, VIBE.com, 30 Dec. 2024
Democrats are gearing up for two northern Virginia-area special elections in the state Senate and House of Delegates next month that could set the tone for what is expected to be a consequential election year in the commonwealth.
—Julia Manchester, The Hill, 24 Dec. 2024
That same dazzling energy that guided the team to victory almost 12 years ago once again set the tone for the dominant 31-2 victory over the Texans Wednesday.
—Todd Karpovich, Baltimore Sun, 26 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for set the tone
Dictionary Entries Near set the tone
Cite this Entry
“Set the tone.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/set%20the%20tone. Accessed 18 Jan. 2025.
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