set the scene
idiom
1
: to give someone information that is needed to understand something
Before I tell the story, let me set the scene (for you).
2
: to create the conditions in which something can happen
His comments set the scene for an argument.
Examples of set the scene in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The Black Wolf Door Knocker, Ghostly Carriage Wall Decor, and Black Halloween Dress Candle will set the scene for a gothic, old-timey Halloween.
—
Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 June 2025
President Trump's mandate to escalate detentions and potentially deportations set the scene for violent protests in Los Angeles this weekend.
—/ Cbs News, CBS News, 8 June 2025
Champagne flowed, a classic Mercury Montclair convertible set the scene, and the couple delivered looks in two chic ensembles—all in the name of Black love.
—Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 3 June 2025
The video begins with a glimpse of the Philadelphia skyline before showing Brown leading Riley into a room at the hotel, decorated with lush floral arrangements and white candles to set the scene.
—Erin Clack, People.com, 5 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for set the scene
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Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 June 2025
President Trump's mandate to escalate detentions and potentially deportations set the scene for violent protests in Los Angeles this weekend.
—/ Cbs News, CBS News, 8 June 2025
Champagne flowed, a classic Mercury Montclair convertible set the scene, and the couple delivered looks in two chic ensembles—all in the name of Black love.
—Victoria Uwumarogie, Essence, 3 June 2025
The video begins with a glimpse of the Philadelphia skyline before showing Brown leading Riley into a room at the hotel, decorated with lush floral arrangements and white candles to set the scene.
—Erin Clack, People.com, 5 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for set the scene
Cite this Entry
“Set the scene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/set%20the%20scene. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.
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