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

Walker finished with a career-best 173 yards on the ground and set the tone on the first drive when his number was called on the first four snaps and seven of the first nine. — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 15 Sep. 2026

If the brand’s recent success at auction is any indication, the sale could break records—and set the tone for auction prices for independent makers in the years to come. — Victoria Gomelsky, Robb Report, 14 Sep. 2026

Pittsburgh native Jaquan Brisker’s interception set up the lone offensive touchdown, four sacks set the tone and the timely splash play from Watt clinched it. — Mike Defabo, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026

Sally Field set the tone for a heartfelt tribute to the late Dolly Parton at the Peacock Theater tonight. — Maureen Chowdhury, CNN Money, 14 Sep. 2026

Rhymes for set the tone

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