Pronunciation

/təʊn/

Definitions

Noun

• Tone (n): The quality or manner of a person’s voice, especially in terms of its emotional or expressive character. For example: “Her tone was soothing, which helped calm the anxious children.”
• Sonic Tone (n): In music, a specific pitch or note produced by a musical instrument or voice. For example: “The song had a melancholy tone.”

Verb

• To adopt a tone (v): To change or assume a particular style or manner of speaking. For example: “She adopted a stern tone when discussing the rules.”
• To respond in tone (v): To reply with a similar emotional or communicative quality. For example: “His sarcastic tone made it clear he didn’t agree.”

Adjective

• Tonal (adj): Relating to the use of pitch, intonation, or stress to convey meaning. For example: “In Japanese, word order is tonal, which can alter the meaning.”

Adverb

• Tonally (adv): In terms of tone or pitch. For example: “She spoke tonally, emphasizing certain words.”

Phrases

• “Change your tone” suggests altering the way you speak to match a different context or emotion.
• “A neutral tone” refers to a balanced or non-emotive communication style.
• “Pitching your voice” is about adjusting your tone for clarity or emphasis.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “She adjusted her tone to match the serious nature of the conversation.”
• Verb: “He tried to soften his tone when addressing his upset colleague.”
• Adjective: “The teacher’s tonal variation kept the students engaged.”

Synonyms

• Pitch
• Inflection
• Register
• Mood
• Character
• Quality
• Modulation
• Timbre

Antonyms

• Flat
• Monotone
• Rigid
• Unemotional
• Stiff