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
Striking design details, like a chain-curtain entrance, set the scene and pay homage to Benjamin Banneker, whose lineage traces to the Dogon tribe of Mali.
—
Taryn White, Forbes.com, 30 July 2025
His work as a journalist has taken him to different parts of the world, which has helped set the scene of many Gabriel Allon adventures.
—Anne Gelhaus, Mercury News, 16 June 2025
Machinery, an extra chair for a guest and a table helped set the scene for the special moment.
—Angel Saunders, People.com, 6 May 2025
There, the retro counter, checkerboard floors, and red vinyl booths set the scene for a classic pre-game ritual.
—Regan Stephens, People.com, 16 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for set the scene
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Taryn White, Forbes.com, 30 July 2025
His work as a journalist has taken him to different parts of the world, which has helped set the scene of many Gabriel Allon adventures.
—Anne Gelhaus, Mercury News, 16 June 2025
Machinery, an extra chair for a guest and a table helped set the scene for the special moment.
—Angel Saunders, People.com, 6 May 2025
There, the retro counter, checkerboard floors, and red vinyl booths set the scene for a classic pre-game ritual.
—Regan Stephens, People.com, 16 July 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 20 Aug. 2025.
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