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
After dinner, head to the Green Room next door, where panoramic views set the scene for cocktails that are simple yet sophisticated.
—
Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Feb. 2026
So before jumping into any sort of physical stimulation, focus on mental arousal and set the scene.
—Zahra Thompson, SELF, 28 Jan. 2026
The somber aura in the locker room set the scene.
—Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 21 Jan. 2026
The gauge was in a similar spot a year ago, which did not halt the rally but set the scene for the DeepSeek shock to AI stocks and the February momentum reversal that kneecapped the Nasdaq.
—Michael Santoli, CNBC, 10 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for set the scene
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Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Feb. 2026
So before jumping into any sort of physical stimulation, focus on mental arousal and set the scene.
—Zahra Thompson, SELF, 28 Jan. 2026
The somber aura in the locker room set the scene.
—Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 21 Jan. 2026
The gauge was in a similar spot a year ago, which did not halt the rally but set the scene for the DeepSeek shock to AI stocks and the February momentum reversal that kneecapped the Nasdaq.
—Michael Santoli, CNBC, 10 Jan. 2026
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 2 Mar. 2026.
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