B2noun1K

Tone

UK /["/təʊn/"]/US /["/təʊn/"]/

Definition

the quality of somebody’s voice, especially expressing a particular emotion

In simple words: The sound quality or character of a voice or music.

Examples

  • She spoke in a harsh tone that made everyone uncomfortable.
  • The composer created a beautiful tone in the symphony.
  • He adjusted the tone of his voice to sound more friendly.
  • The artist used warm tones to evoke happiness in her painting.
  • The tone of the message was clearly optimistic despite the challenges.
  • To improve muscle tone, it's important to exercise regularly.
  • Her sarcastic tone indicated that she was not pleased with the decision.
  • The novel's tone shifted drastically from comedic to serious.

Usage notes

Used to describe qualities of sound in music or speech. Avoid using in overly casual contexts. It’s appropriate in discussions about art, music, and communication.

Grammar pattern

tone + of + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'tone' as the 'tone' of a person's voice, like how it 'tones' the message.

Collocations

  • deep
  • low
  • hushed
  • adopt
  • speak in
  • strike
  • change
  • soften
  • convey something
  • in a/​the tone
  • in tones of
  • a tone of voice
  • dominant
  • general
  • overall
  • establish
  • set
  • have
  • in tone
  • a change in tone
  • a change of tone
  • deep
  • low
  • hushed
  • adopt
  • speak in
  • strike
  • change
  • soften
  • convey something
  • in a/​the tone
  • in tones of
  • a tone of voice
  • light
  • muted
  • neutral
  • match
  • dial
  • dialling
  • engaged
  • get
  • sound

Synonyms

  • pitch
  • quality
  • inflection
  • sound
  • character

Antonyms

  • dullness
  • flatness
  • monotony

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'tune', especially in music contexts.
  • Using 'tone' only in musical contexts, rather than in speech.
  • Mixing up 'tone' with 'mood' when describing emotional qualities.