subdict-logo

tone

Definition

  • noun: the quality of a person's voice
  • noun: vocal or musical sound of a specific quality
  • verb: to give strength and firmness to (something, such as muscles or skin)
  • verb: to give a particular intonation or inflection to
  • often used with 'down'
  • synonyms: intone, tonicity, temper

Examples

  • The seriousness of his opening statement 'set the tone' for/of the meeting. [=his opening statement established that the meeting would be serious]

  • ('Brit') I keep getting the 'engaged tone'. [=('US') 'busy signal'; the sound which indicates that the telephone line is already being used]

  • People will be more likely to listen to you if you 'tone down' your language a little.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) What is it with you two? - If there's something on your mind, say... - In my house? You left him in my house?! Lower your voice, or at least change your tone. Did you take care of it? Yes, that's what I do. Then thank you, and well done. Now let's get back to what's in front of us. (..)
    2017 TvShow: House of Cards Title: Chapter 65 Season: 5 Episode 13