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
To set the scene, the designer followed his 60-30-10 color-mixing rule with brown as the primary tone, green as the accent, and red and purple for punctuated pops.
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Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 5 Oct. 2025
White flowers and candles set the scene for their engagement pictures.
—Michael Nied, PEOPLE, 29 Sep. 2025
Natural environments can also set the scene for deeper connection and reflection, taking couples away from their routines, distractions, and smartphones.
—Esme Benjamin, AFAR Media, 18 Sep. 2025
Columns of fire and flashing red lights set the scene alongside a flurry of backup dancers.
—Audrey Gibbs, Nashville Tennessean, 12 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for set the scene
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Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 5 Oct. 2025
White flowers and candles set the scene for their engagement pictures.
—Michael Nied, PEOPLE, 29 Sep. 2025
Natural environments can also set the scene for deeper connection and reflection, taking couples away from their routines, distractions, and smartphones.
—Esme Benjamin, AFAR Media, 18 Sep. 2025
Columns of fire and flashing red lights set the scene alongside a flurry of backup dancers.
—Audrey Gibbs, Nashville Tennessean, 12 Sep. 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 15 Oct. 2025.
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