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

While Redick has emphasized the importance of Doncic and Reaves growing into larger leadership roles, Redick still set the tone from the coaching staff for the first day of practice. — Los Angeles Times, 29 Sep. 2026

Prada’s parade of skirts set the tone for the week, showing just how much versatility can come from one wardrobe staple. — Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 28 Sep. 2026

Leaders set the tone for whether people feel seen, included and part of something bigger. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 28 Sep. 2026

The Fifth Avenue windows set the tone before guests even stepped inside, with stacks of books wrapped in jackets printed with patterns from the collection, alongside illustrations inspired by the same prints. — Donna Kim, Vogue, 27 Sep. 2026

Rhymes for set the tone

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