Definition

Noun: - The quality, character, or emotional inflection of a person's speech: This refers to how something is said, rather than what is said. It encompasses the pitch, volume, warmth, harshness, or emotional feeling conveyed by the voice.

Usage

The phrase "tone of voice" is used to describe or comment on the expressive quality of someone's speaking voice. It is a key element in communication that can change the meaning or perceived intent of the words spoken. - It is typically used with verbs like have, use, speak in, adopt, or detect. - It is often modified by adjectives describing the quality (e.g., friendly, sarcastic, authoritative, soft).

Examples

• Noun:
  • Her tone of voice was calm and reassuring.
  • I didn't like his aggressive tone of voice during the meeting.
  • You could tell from his tone of voice that he was very disappointed.
  • She asked the question in a curious tone of voice.

Advanced Usage

• "in a [adjective] tone of voice": This is the most common construction for specifying the quality.
  • He explained the rules in a patient tone of voice.
• The phrase can be used to give indirect instructions about how to communicate.
  • Try to use a more respectful tone of voice when speaking to your elders.

Variants and Related Words

• Tone (noun): Often used interchangeably with "tone of voice" in context.
  • His tone was harsh. (Implies tone of voice)
• Intonation (noun): Specifically refers to the rise and fall of the pitch of the voice.
• Inflection (noun): A change in the pitch or tone of the voice.

Synonyms

• Manner of speaking
• Vocal tone
• Voice quality

Related Phrases

• To set the tone: To establish a particular mood or attitude.
  • The manager's opening remarks set a positive tone for the discussion.
• Tone it down: An idiom meaning to make something less intense, forceful, or extreme, often referring to speech or behavior.
  • Your criticism is too harsh; you need to tone it down.

Noun

1. the quality of a person's voice
   • he began in a conversational tone
   • he spoke in a nervous tone of voice