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

Both lines are talented and will help set the tone in the NSC. — Steve Reaven, Chicago Tribune, 19 Aug. 2026

Rosie O’Donnell immediately set the tone for her first monologue as guest host on Jimmy Kimmel Live! — Denise Petski, Deadline, 18 Aug. 2026

Balanced meals and after-school movement Mornings set the tone. — Ashley Lynch, Charlotte Observer, 18 Aug. 2026

Leaders set the tone for the organization through clear and consistent communication that expresses how AI will change the business and the workforce. — John M. Bremen, Forbes.com, 17 Aug. 2026

Rhymes for set the tone

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