set the scene
phrase
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
The restaurant’s windowed structure opens onto a beachfront courtyard, partially veiled by climbing vines and framed by Mediterranean shrubs, where outdoor tables and parasols set the scene for aperitivo, light lunches and open air dining.
—
Martino Carrera,
Footwear News,
3 Sep. 2019
See All Example Sentences for set the scene
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Martino Carrera,
Footwear News,
3 Sep. 2019
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 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
