Please enable javascript to see: 1. Which of the following words best maintains the tone established in this passage. – tone = general feeling | 2. Would you describe the author's tone as...

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tone
in a sentence

tone as in: the tone of the essay

Which of the following words best maintains the tone established in this passage.
tone = general feeling

Would you describe the author's tone as more optimistic or more pessimistic?
tone = general feeling or attitude

"Honey, it seems a little too … well, forceful." ... It's not the content of the letter so much as the tone. (source) Carl Hiassen, Hoot, 2002
tone = general feeling, mood, or attitude

To the average person, Celeste's tone probably sounded sincere, but I could see through it. (source) Kiera Cass, The Selection, 2012
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling or attitude

Kit recoiled, as much from his angry tone as from the repulsive words. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

Lenina blushed scarlet; but her eyes, the tone of her voice remained defiant. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice expressing a general feeling, mood, or attitude

She smiles and says in that same sugary, sympathetic tone, "Now, do you know if Khalil sold narcotics?" (source) Angie Thomas, The Hate U Give, 2017
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling or attitude

The email was long, a thousand words of accusation and bile, but by the end his tone was mournful. (source) Tara Westover, Educated, 2018
tone = general feeling, mood, or attitude

Then through the hubbub, the sheriff's ear caught the corner of an even voice, a balanced tone, and turned to face Hal Miller, shrimper crew for Tim O'Neal. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

If he'd recognized the offended tone in Liesel's voice, he certainly wasn't showing it. (source) Markus Zusak, The Book Thief, 2005
tone = general feeling or attitude

"Mama," whispered Esperanza, taking on a tone she had heard Mama use many times. (source) Pam Munoz Ryan, Esperanza Rising, 2000
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

show 189 more with this conextual meaning

"What if you show me what's edible around here and go get us some meat?" he says, mimicking my tone. (source) Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games, 2008
tone = general feeling, mood, or attitude

"Please put it straight," he asked my mother in an unusually sharp tone. (source) Malala Yousafzai, I Am Malala, 2013
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

Lina could tell from his tone of voice that Doon didn't really want Clary to be home. (source) Jeanne DuPrau, The City of Ember, 2003
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

"I guess I'll wait in the car for you," he said finally, his tone a little apologetic. (source) Khaled Hosseini, The Kite Runner, 2003
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

Despite the message's reasonable tone, the threat behind it was crystal clear. (source) Ernest Cline, Ready Player One, 2011
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

Nearly Headless Nick took several deep breaths and then said, in a far calmer tone, "So — what's bothering you?" (source)
tone = mood (general feeling)

It wasn't the story but the tone of his voice that mattered, a gentle baritone rumble as calming as waves breaking on a shore. (source) Neal Shusterman, Unwind, 2007
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

He hollered out his point in a friendly tone: "Yo, Padre!" he'd say. (source) Jeannette Walls, The Glass Castle, 2005
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

Although the tone of the journal, written in the third person in a stilted, self-consciousness voice, often veers toward melodrama, the available evidence indicates that McCandless did not misrepresent the facts; telling the truth was a credo he took seriously. (source) Jon Krakauer, Into the Wild, 1996
tone = general feeling or mood

In the same chipper tone, the native replied that the marines were dead. (source) Laura Hillenbrand, Unbroken, 2010
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

There was an ironic tone to that final message, as if the Speaker found it amusing; and Jonas had smiled a little, though he knew what a grim statement it had been. (source) Lois Lowry, The Giver, 1993
tone = general feel

Ed Regis listened to the tone of her voice. (source) Michael Crichton, Jurassic Park, 1993
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

But Rosaleen, who had less sense than I'd dreamed, said in this tone like she was explaining something real hard to a kindergarten student, "I'm going to register my name so I can vote, that's what." (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

His tone of weary unconcern infuriated her. (source) Orson Scott Card, Ender's Game, 1977
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

"Oh," said Stacey, his tone indicating that he considered the visit of no importance. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

She leaned her forehead against the bars and after a short silence went on in a thoughtful tone. (source) Natalie Babbitt, Tuck Everlasting, 1975
tone = quality of voice that expresses a feeling or attitude

"That's the greaser that jockeys for the Slash J sometime," she said, as if we couldn't hear her. I had heard the same tone a million times: "Greaser… greaser… greaser." (source) S. E. Hinton, The Outsiders, 1967
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

It was hard to tell from Reenie's tone whether she approved of these differences or not. (source)
tone = quality of voice

His tone was not kindly. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

His tone was kind, but the words still embarrassed me. (source) Rick Riordan, The Lightning Thief, 2005
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

The tone of his voice only heightened Thomas's concern. (source) James Dashner, The Maze Runner, 2009

At the tone of Mrs Whatsit's voice, both warning and frightening, Meg shivered again. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

Mrs. Merriweather was one of those childless adults who find it necessary to assume a different tone of voice when speaking to children. (source) Harper Lee, To Kill a Mockingbird, 1960
tone = pitch (sound of voice) that expressed an attitude or feeling

The doctor didn't look at me, and barely changed his tone of voice. "Sports are finished for him, after an accident like that." (source) John Knowles, A Separate Peace, 1959
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

His tone now changed from anger to command. (source) Chinua Achebe, Things Fall Apart, 1958

Momma changed the tone of her voice. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

His tone conveyed a warning, given out of the pride of ownership, and the boys ate faster while there was still time. (source)
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

HATHORNE, with a mystical tone: God be praised! (source) Arthur Miller, The Crucible, 1953
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

"I suppose you do it to keep your figure," he added in a mocking tone. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

So she did, and the more she talked, the more she felt the cold, impersonal tone she'd used to describe her parents' deaths fall away till she was almost overcome with sadness and longing for what, so quickly and suddenly, so unexpectedly, had become part of her past. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

She thought of the elementary school, just a mile away, the order there and the ordinariness, and she thought of Kay Marshall's disapproving tone, and yet she kept going. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

His tone of voice became increasingly brutal. (source) Elie Wiesel, Night, 1960

It's the same question he asked Amanda, but this time his tone is sincere. (source)
tone = general attitude

I was stunned at this suddenly serious tone she was using with me. (source) John Corey Whaley, Nogin, 2014
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

Something in the tone of his voice seemed to add, 'that bloody fool'. (source) George Orwell, 1984, 1949
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

There was urgency in Rogers' tone. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

His tone was friendly. (source) John Steinbeck, Of Mice and Men, 1937
tone = attitude

"Where are you going?" said Thorin, in a tone that seemed to show that he guessed both halves of the hobbit's mind. (source) J. R. R. Tolkien, The Hobbit, 1937
tone = quality of voice

There was a husky tenderness in his tone…. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

He did indeed always refer to us as swine, but there was, nevertheless, a certain respect in his tone. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

At least I think it must be a compliment because of the tone he said it in. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

The general tone of the team picked up immediately. (source) Jack London, The Call of the Wild, 1903
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

His very tone betray him, or my ears deceive. (source) Bram Stoker, Dracula, 1897
tone = quality of voice expressing a general feeling or mood

Peter had once asked one of the bargees the time, and had been told to 'get out of that,' in a tone so fierce that he did not stop to say anything about his having just as much right on the towing-path as the man himself. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

"Yes; it is Hester Prynne!" she replied, in a tone of surprise; and the minister heard her footsteps approaching from the side-walk, along which she had been passing. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

"I won't!" said Henry, in a firm tone, indicating his readiness to meet the consequences of his refusal. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

Her tone expressed her entire indifference; (source) Mary Shelley, Frankenstein, 1818
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

Never did tone express indifference plainer. (source) Jane Austen, Mansfield Park, 1814
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

There was something strange in Lupin's tone, it was almost cold. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

"Katniss--" he begins. Already the admission of guilt is in his tone. (source) Suzanne Collins, Mockingjay, 2010

"Looking for Madge?" he said in a friendly tone. (source) Suzanne Collins, Catching Fire, 2009

"Did you wash your hands?" she asked, her tone sweet and buttery. (source) Tara Westover, Educated, 2018
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

One couldn't have guessed, by his tone, that he had ever addressed her before. (source)
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling or attitude

In a tone of horror, Manuel said, "It bit him." (source) Michael Crichton, Jurassic Park, 1993
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

She handed it to Roy's father, who read it and said, "I think the tone is exactly right." (source) Carl Hiassen, Hoot, 2002
tone = general feeling, mood, or attitude

Something in his tone of voice made me look at him. (source) S. E. Hinton, The Outsiders, 1967
tone = general attitude

"That's not a very good answer, Brink," he said in a tone struggling to remain reasonable. (source) John Knowles, A Separate Peace, 1959
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

You keep talking to her in that tone of voice, maybe she'll find herself a new boyfriend. (source) Neal Shusterman, Unwind, 2007
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

Suddenly I grew conscious of a break in that monotonous tone and I looked up. (source)
tone = sound (of voice)

"Father smokes like a furnace," I said, in what I hoped was an insolent tone. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

He thought the tone of shock in my voice was really consternation. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

Newt's tone warned that the conversation about the Changing was over. (source) James Dashner, The Maze Runner, 2009
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

"Safe to do what?" he says in a gentler tone. (source) Suzanne Collins, Catching Fire, 2009

She is not weepy or evasive, instead there's an urgency about her tone that surprises me. (source) Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games, 2008
tone = general feeling, mood, or attitude

Abra could tell, despite Ender's joking tone, that he meant it, and so he stayed. (source) Orson Scott Card, Ender's Game, 1977
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

Something in her tone made the girl stop what she was doing. (source)

"Gale," I say, taking his arm and trying to speak in a reasonable tone. (source) Suzanne Collins, Mockingjay, 2010
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

If anything her tone was incurious and weary, though benign. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude

"Please leave us alone, Agha," Hassan said in a flat tone. (source) Khaled Hosseini, The Kite Runner, 2003
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

"Come along, Percy," Chiron said, his lighthearted tone now a little forced. (source) Rick Riordan, The Lightning Thief, 2005
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

In spite of his airy tone, there was a look of great bitterness on his face. (source)
tone = general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

The tone vanished, however, when he saw the sleep deprivation whittled under his father's eyes. (source) Markus Zusak, The Book Thief, 2005
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

I'd never have talked to a girl about this in such a normal tone of voice. (source)

"Your maids?" he asked in a tone that implied I was an idiot. (source) Kiera Cass, The Selection, 2012
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

Momma cuts him a side-eye, and he says in a more stern tone, "I mean, what? What you do that for?" (source) Angie Thomas, The Hate U Give, 2017
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

A cross between pedagogue, soothsayer, and benevolent uncle — that should be his tone. (source) Margaret Atwood, Oryx and Crake, 2003
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

"You look great!"
"Always the tone of surprise," said Hermione, though she smiled. (source)

His pleasant, condescending tone had returned. (source) Ernest Cline, Ready Player One, 2011
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

Oh yeah, I had heard that tone before too many times. (source) S. E. Hinton, The Outsiders, 1967
tone = attitude expressed in the sound of the voice

Peeta begins to speak in a frustrated tone about the need for the cease-fire. (source) Suzanne Collins, Mockingjay, 2010
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

"It's a killing all right," said Jimmy's father in a disgusted tone. (source) Margaret Atwood, Oryx and Crake, 2003

The snake wrangler was using a false husky tone—the voice of a boy trying to sound like a grownup. (source) Carl Hiassen, Hoot, 2002
tone = pitch (sound of voice)

Kit flared, indignant as much at his tone as at the dread word he uttered so carelessly. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

His tone was respectful: no doubt he recognized Richard's name. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

Edgar could hear the irritation in his tone from across the yard. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

Her tone is intentionally indignant, as if the question itself offended her. (source) Neal Shusterman, Unwind, 2007
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

"Of course he does," Celeste replied in a tone someone would use with a child. (source) Kiera Cass, The Selection, 2012
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

"You've been shouting and moaning and… things," she added in a tone that made Harry feel uneasy. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

He tries to take on a more serious tone, unsuccessfully. (source) Suzanne Collins, Catching Fire, 2009

"Be careful," Chuck said, his tone quickly melting into genuine concern. (source) James Dashner, The Maze Runner, 2009

"Several times over," I say in a superior tone. (source) Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games, 2008
tone = pitch (sound of voice) that expressed an attitude

She ordered, in the same tone she was using on the dog. (source) Rick Riordan, The Lightning Thief, 2005
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

"I see," I said in a tone which made Brinker raise his eyes and lock them with mine. (source) John Knowles, A Separate Peace, 1959
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

Dussel replied in his haughtiest tone, "Ich mach' das schon!" (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

Hatter considered the sadness, the mournful reminiscence, in the reverend's tone. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or mood

Hans couldn't resist an incredulous tone. (source) Markus Zusak, The Book Thief, 2005
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

His tone was sympathetic but disappointed. (source) Tara Westover, Educated, 2018
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

Then, with a sudden touch of steel in his tone, he added, "In fact, I'm certain of it." (source) Ernest Cline, Ready Player One, 2011

Silvia went on and on in her elegant tone, taunting my stomach. (source) Kiera Cass, The Selection, 2012
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

In spite of the Admiral's tone of voice, he feels less and less intimidated by him. (source) Neal Shusterman, Unwind, 2007
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

I could tell from her tone that the last time hadn't gone well. (source) Rick Riordan, The Lightning Thief, 2005
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

Claude spoke about his older brother in a clear-eyed, unsentimental tone. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

The tone of my request is so odd that it's alerted him to some irregularity. (source) Suzanne Collins, Catching Fire, 2009
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

The tone of that entry seems lofty, high-minded, but in it I detect a whiff of fatalism. (source) Tara Westover, Educated, 2018
tone = general feeling, mood, or attitude

"President Snow used to…sell me…my body, that is," Finnick begins in a flat, removed tone. (source) Suzanne Collins, Mockingjay, 2010
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

The captain's tone was one of paternal disappointment. (source) Carl Hiassen, Hoot, 2002
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

I say, trying for the special tone that my mother used only with my father. (source) Suzanne Collins, The Hunger Games, 2008
tone = general feeling, mood, or attitude

"And what exactly did I say?" asked Hermione, her tone some-where between skepticism and curiosity. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

"Listen," he said, adopting a confidential tone. "I need to tell you one last thing before I go." (source) Ernest Cline, Ready Player One, 2011
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

Judith's tone had more than a touch of smugness. (source)

"Stop, stop!" cried Finny in a referee's tone. (source) John Knowles, A Separate Peace, 1959
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

The words were acceptable enough, it was the indifferent tone that was bewildering. (source)
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

My mom looked at me sternly and talked in a tone she'd never used before: "Percy. Tell me now!" (source) Rick Riordan, The Lightning Thief, 2005
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

However, the change in his tone seemed to have gained her approval: She smiled encouragingly. (source)

My joking tone made it clear I wasn't too upset about losing. (source) Kiera Cass, The Selection, 2012
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

Mr. Eberhardt spoke in a hushed and confidential tone. (source) Carl Hiassen, Hoot, 2002
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

"No one's accusing you of anything," Brinker responded in an odd tone. (source) John Knowles, A Separate Peace, 1959

She lets her tone of voice convey all the weight. (source) Neal Shusterman, Unwind, 2007
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

He walked back over to us, and his tone turned serious. (source) Ernest Cline, Ready Player One, 2011

It could be a joke, if the tone wasn't so cold. (source) Suzanne Collins, Mockingjay, 2010
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

The questions of the driver had the tone of a subtle examination. (source)
tone = general feel

George's voice was taking on the tone of confession. (source) John Steinbeck, Of Mice and Men, 1937
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

He paused, and went on in a gentler tone: 'You are improving.' (source) George Orwell, 1984, 1949
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or mood

"You'll give me at least a week's warning, won't you," she went on in another tone. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

Preachin's a kinda tone a voice, an' preachin's a way a lookin' at things. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

Just imperceptibly his manner changed. It was slightly more assured-easier in tone. (source)
tone = general feel or attitude

The tune that they were playing changed, and the tone of the music changed too. (source) George Orwell, 1984, 1949
tone = general feel

He sighed, fell silent again, then continued in a brisker tone, "Well, duty's duty." (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

He finished in the tone of a benediction, and Al reddened a little with pleasure. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

There was an unpleasant tone in his voice. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

'All this is a digression,' he added in a different tone. (source) George Orwell, 1984, 1949
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or mood

"Lenina, my dear," he called in another tone. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

Ruthie heard the threat in Ma's tone, and changed her tactics. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

His tone was so significant that the doctor looked at him sharply. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

He had said in the same casual tone: "And you can't give me any further information?" (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing an attitude

"Gonna pick peaches?" Pa's tone was dignified. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

"It's all right, Director," he said in a tone of faint derision, "I won't corrupt them." (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of voice that expresses a feeling or attitude

When he spoke it was in an easy, conversational tone. (source) George Orwell, 1984, 1949
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

The screaming of the babies suddenly changed its tone. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or mood

Vera said: "Quite." Her tone warned him. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

Ma said, in a sharp matter-of-fact tone, "I don' see why him savin' Tom got to get you drunk." (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

In a measured tone the judge was saying: "My dear young lady, do try and restrain your feelings." (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or mood

"Do you know Bernard Marx?" she asked in a tone whose excessive casualness was evidently forced. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

"It's sleep--" Ma said in a shamed tone. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

"What are you giving them?" asked Mr. Foster, making his tone very professional. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

"His eyes was still open," said Ruthie in a hushed tone. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

He said in an over-casual tone: "Always carry that about with you, sir?" (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

Then, in another tone: "But, I say," he went on, "you do look glum!" (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

The words were not clear, only the tone. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

"Now, who wants a chocolate éclair?" she asked in a loud, cheerful tone. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

"And then," he added, in a lower tone, "I ate my own wickedness." (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = pitch (sound of voice) that expressed an attitude

"Take me to her," said the Savage, making an effort to speak in an ordinary tone. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

"I'm taking Lenina Crowne to New Mexico with me," he said in a tone as casual as he could make it. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932

His bored tone implied that he was in the habit of talking to his fordship every day of the week. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932

"Oh, Ford!" he said in another tone, "I've gone and woken the children." (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or mood

Then, in another tone, suddenly, startlingly. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

But Henry's tone was almost, for a moment, melancholy. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or mood

After a silence, "We've come to say good-bye," he went on in another tone. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

His tone was a little more friendly. (source) John Steinbeck, Of Mice and Men, 1937
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

His tone grew decisive. (source) John Steinbeck, Of Mice and Men, 1937

The tone of his voice implied at once a complete admission of his guilt and a sort of incredulous horror that such a word could be applied to himself. (source) George Orwell, 1984, 1949
tone = quality of voice that expresses a feeling or attitude

The voice from the telescreen paused and added in a different and much graver tone: 'You are warned to stand by for an important announcement at fifteen-thirty.' (source) George Orwell, 1984, 1949
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or mood

He stopped and added in a cold biting tone: "Or do you suggest that I gave her an overdose on purpose?" (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

And on the preacher's face there was a look not of prayer, but of thought; and in his tone not supplication, but conjecture. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

He cleared his throat and said in a would-be conversational tone: "Nice peaceful spot you've found for yourself, sir." (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or mood

Armstrong's tone sounded relieved. (source)
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling

Now a response filled in the pause, and the exhortation went up with a tone of triumph, and a growl of power came into the voice. (source)
tone = the general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

And we all got on the same tone, an' I tell ya, it jus' seemed like that tank bulged an' give and swelled up. (source)

The camp was quiet in the blinding heat, but the noises of hot grass--of crickets, the hum of flies--were a tone that was close to silence. (source)

"You git quick." There was no argument against such a tone. Ruthie and Winfield went reluctantly down the car. (source)

She put an interest in her tone. (source)

Her tone had made him ashamed. (source)

Her tone was cold and final. (source)

Pa's voice took on her tone. (source)

Mae's tone was faltering. (source)

"I always think," the Director was continuing in the same rather maudlin tone, when he was interrupted by a loud boo-hooing. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

"Yes, and civilization is sterilization," Bernard went on, concluding on a tone of irony the second hypnopaedic lesson in elementary hygiene. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932

"And after all," Fanny's tone was coaxing, "it's not as though there were anything painful or disagreeable about having one or two men besides Henry." (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

Then, with a sudden change of tone, "But seriously," she said, "I really do think you ought to be careful." (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

"Least of all," she continued in another tone "why you don't take soma when you have these dreadful ideas of yours." (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932

"My young friend," said the Arch-Community-Songster in a tone of loud and solemn severity; there was a general silence. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932

"For the New Mexican Reservation?" he said, and his tone, the face he lifted to Bernard, expressed a kind of agitated astonishment. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

Bernard gave his orders in the sharp, rather arrogant and even offensive tone of one who does not feel himself too secure in his superiority. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932

The tone was menacingly derisive. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

Then, turning to his secretary, "I'll leave you to put my things away," he went on in the same official and impersonal tone; and, ignoring her lustrous smile, got up and walked briskly to the door. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or attitude

"O brave new world, O brave new world …" In his mind the singing words seemed to change their tone. They had mocked him through his misery and remorse, mocked him with how hideous a note of cynical derision! (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = general feeling, mood, or attitude of something

He had managed, with a heroic effort, to hold down the mounting pressure of his hilarity; but "sweet mother" (in the Savage's tremulous tone of anguish) and the reference to Tybalt lying dead, but evidently uncremated and wasting his phosphorus on a dim monument, were too much for him. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of voice expressing a feeling or mood

Her tone was loud, exultant. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932
tone = quality of the voice that expresses a general feeling, mood, or attitude

Lenina's tone was firm. (source) Aldous Huxley, Brave New World, 1932

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meaning too common or rare to warrant focus:

show 10 examples with meaning too common or rare to warrant focus

His tone dips when he mentions them. (source) Angie Thomas, The Hate U Give, 2017
tone = pitch (sound of voice)

A pair of navy blue lace-up Keds and some Buster Brown two-tone saddle shoes, polished brown and white so many times they glowed. (source)
tone = color

This part here is called the tone hook, okay? (source) R. J. Palacio, Wonder, 2012
tone = relating to the pitch (sound quality)

So when I pointed out a pair of sandals that would suit her skin tone, she was like, "Yeah, but …." (source)
tone = quality of color or lighting

A tone sounded as we reached the 106th floor, and the elevator doors swished open. (source) Ernest Cline, Ready Player One, 2011
tone = auditory signal or sound

Tim picked up a phone on the console but heard only a dial tone. (source) Michael Crichton, Jurassic Park, 1993
tone = sound at a given pitch

Then he walked to a point just beyond the reach of the dog's chain and whistled a warbly double-tone—tweee, tweee. (source)
tone = pitch of a whistle

Then: the dull drone of a dial tone.† (source) Tara Westover, Educated, 2018

Afterward we went into the small museum at the back, which had displays of the special white bow ties Jinnah used to order from Paris, his three-piece suits tailored in London, his golf clubs and a special traveling box with drawers for twelve pairs of shoes including his favorite two-tone brogues.† (source) Malala Yousafzai, I Am Malala, 2013

I flatter myself I know a touch more about Hagrid's arrest than you do, Mr. Weasley," said Lockhart in a self-satisfied tone.† (source)

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The trucker's other hand has thicker fingers, and the skin is a bit more olive in tone.† (source) Neal Shusterman, Unwind, 2007

It was a threat, of course, as was much of what she would say to me in this easy and confiding tone.† (source)

I picked up the phone and heard a dial tone.† (source) Firoozeh Dumas, Funny in Farsi, 2003

"Did you think we wouldn't dare to show up?" the thickset woman asked, her tone trying to be provocative.† (source) Cixin Liu, The Three-Body Problem, 2008

"Oh," said Shalamov, in the tone of one who suddenly understands a simple misapprehension between friends.† (source)

Whether she is relaying stories of happy times with her family or talking about the tragedy of being here, there is no change in her tone.† (source)

"No, Uncle Max, of course not," Paul said in a placatory tone.† (source) Mina Baites, The Silver Music Box, 2017

His tone was low and serious, but he barked his words out like a challenge as the two boys squared off on their front lawn, out of sight of Mary, who was inside the house.† (source) Wes Moore, The Other Wes Moore, 2010

His sympathetic tone sounds manufactured to me.† (source) Veronica Roth, Divergent, 2011

His tone of voice set off a small alarm bell in my head.† (source) Yann Martel, Life of Pi, 2001

I've told Mr. McMillian that we would—" The dial tone interrupted my first affirmative statement of the phone call.† (source) Bryan Stevenson, Just Mercy, 2014

It might have been me, but the pounding of Patrick's feet on the road seemed to have taken on a grim, resolute tone.† (source) Jojo Moyes, Me Before You, 2012

She said this in a pragmatic, almost indifferent, tone, and Mariam understood that this was a woman far past outrage.† (source)

No need for a mocking tone, Lucille.† (source)

I'm busy at the moment," Fache radioed back, leaving no doubt in his tone that a line had been crossed.† (source) Dan Brown, The Da Vinci Code, 2003

Mrs. Billups replied, in that superior tone that teachers dressed in nice red business suits use when they're talking to mothers with dirty shirts on, "We were reviewing the alphabet, of course.† (source) Sharon M. Draper, Out of My Mind, 2010

The mocking tone reminded her of Dr. Cable.† (source) Scott Westerfeld, Uglies, 2005

She dismissed Mrs. Moore with her tone of voice.† (source) Walter Dean Myers, Monster, 1999

The secretaries still talk about fashion; the director still arrives in a two-tone Delage limousine; and every noon the African vendors still wheel their sandwich carts quietly down the halls with their whispers of rye and egg, rye and egg.† (source)

"I'm not your countess," Violet said testily, a word which here means "in an extremely annoyed tone."† (source) Lemony Snicket, The Bad Beginning, 1999

In the same not-really-there tone of voice, she said, "Puts me in mind of me Gran's sister, Aunt Clara.† (source) Neil Gaiman, The Graveyard Book, 2008

"It's simple, really," he said, his tone so matter-of-fact one would think he'd just given them instructions on how to turn on the showers in the bathroom.† (source) James Dashner, The Scorch Trials, 2010

Then, while the courtroom looked on, Joe read through the papers, speaking to Mr. Russell in a quiet, confidential tone.† (source)

Self-conscious but also aware of the warning in Edwin's tone, Cole stood and began circling the fire.† (source)

They said it would look better with my skin tone.† (source) Kiera Cass, The Selection, 2012

Hatsue, her bucket beside her, her shovel in one hand, pointed out the darkness of the exposed clam's lip, its size, its hue and tone, the circumference of its watery dimple.† (source)

She was yelling at Mr. Dell Duke and the tone of her voice demanded that the world listen as she stood up for her brother and for me.† (source)

The woman seemed ready to say "I know that," but then, as if remembering they were on camera, adopted a studied, performative tone.† (source) Dave Eggers, The Circle, 2013

His tone was more reasonable now, more like Coach Walski's.† (source) Edward Bloor, Tangerine, 1997

Her tone was casual, as if she held conversations every night with people crouching behind the car in the driveway.† (source) Jerry Spinelli, Stargirl, 2000

Aunt Daisy shouted in a tone George had never heard her use before.† (source)

Once you've developed a little wind, and some tone and a embouchure we'll move on to something a little more complicated.† (source)

I softened my tone and made it more wheedling, as if I had suggested Caroline take Daddy in a serious way.† (source) Jane Smiley, A Thousand Acres, 1991

You're using a strange tone of voice; you're lying about where you've been.† (source) Sara Shepard, Pretty Little Liars, 2006

She wanted to hear the change in tone of a receptionist's voice when the woman heard it was Judge Cormier on the line.† (source) Jodi Picoult, Nineteen Minutes, 2007

Lydia asked, in a tone of voice so perfectly copied from my grandmother that I had to look to see which one of them was speaking.† (source)

Tone it down, girl!† (source) Bharati Mukherjee, Jasmine, 1989

Mother raises her eyebrows at my tone, takes her glasses off.† (source) Kathryn Stockett, The Help, 2009

"If there are no questions," the king said to the Champions and their sponsors in a tone that suggested that asking questions would only guarantee a trip to the gallows, "then you have my leave.† (source) Sarah J. Maas, Throne of Glass, 2012

"Sky," he says, mimicking my tone.† (source) Colleen Hoover, Hopeless, 2013

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