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
Franchisors should set the tone for supplier relationships through clear, measurable service-level agreements.
—
David Chapman, Forbes.com, 12 May 2025
This one gave the Celtics a 16-point lead – and set the tone for the most productive postseason performance of the NBA Sixth Man of the Year’s career.
—Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 12 May 2025
On the eve of the gala, Tyla set the tone in a full Tolu Coker look, perfectly channeling the dandy spirit of the night.
—Essence, 9 May 2025
Leo's response will set the tone for his approach to Beijing’s increasingly overt challenges to Vatican authority, as well as its persecution of underground Catholic clergy in a country that is home to approximately 20 million Catholics.
—Aryn Baker, Time, 9 May 2025
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David Chapman, Forbes.com, 12 May 2025
This one gave the Celtics a 16-point lead – and set the tone for the most productive postseason performance of the NBA Sixth Man of the Year’s career.
—Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 12 May 2025
On the eve of the gala, Tyla set the tone in a full Tolu Coker look, perfectly channeling the dandy spirit of the night.
—Essence, 9 May 2025
Leo's response will set the tone for his approach to Beijing’s increasingly overt challenges to Vatican authority, as well as its persecution of underground Catholic clergy in a country that is home to approximately 20 million Catholics.
—Aryn Baker, Time, 9 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for 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 21 May. 2025.
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