set the tone

phrase

: 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

Early on, Garcia hurt Haney, who was a big favourite before the bout, with a left hook that set the tone. — Chris McKenna, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026

Rather than stepping straight into a room, you’re welcomed by a private terrace, where an orange tree, a long, inviting, olive green sofa, and a collection of colorful Sicilian ceramics set the tone for what's to come. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Sep. 2026

Ternus takes center stage The keynote address for Ternus was his opportunity to set the tone for his vision of Apple’s future, Chatterjee said. — Barbara Ortutay, Los Angeles Times, 10 Sep. 2026

Dramatic hues from Victoria Beckham, Posse, and Anine Bing set the tone for autumn nuptials. — Joy Montgomery, Vogue, 9 Sep. 2026

Rhymes for set the tone

• acetone
• anglophone
• baritone
• bourguignon
• buspirone
• chaperon
• chaperone
• cobblestone
• collarbone
• cornerstone
• cortisone
• dictaphone