control tone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "control tone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to audio, communication, or behavioral management, where it refers to the tone used to exert influence or authority. Example: "In the meeting, she used a control tone to ensure that everyone stayed focused on the agenda."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Indeed, the "get your wife under control" tone to reporting about Bercow makes me sick to my stomach.

The Guardian - Opinion

Everyone associates Ben with clowning, when he actually has the ability to control tone and story and look to achieve something masterful.

The New Yorker

In Tad Friend's Profile of Ben Stiller, Robert Downey, Jr., says, "Everyone associates Ben with clowning, when he actually has the ability to control tone and story and look to achieve something masterful".

The New Yorker

You can control tone of voice, promotions, cadence of information, engagement rates and everything else when you own your social community.

TechCrunch

He described Smith's "control, tone and warmth" as "very moving".

Wikipedia

The concept extends the text-to-speech interface of a Toby Churchill Lightwriter SL35™ (as an example of a speech- generating device) with a separate interface to control tone of voice.

AAC: Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Initially installed in 17 U.S. theaters, the Sensurround system used large subwoofers which were driven by racks of 500 watt amplifiers which were triggered by control tones printed on one of the audio tracks on the film.

Wikipedia

Brain connectivities that discriminate between tinnitus and control tones were investigated without prior restrictions to specific regions.

Plosone

Significant interaction terms revealed a deviating synchronization pattern of the "tinnitus tone" and the control tones between the two groups (figure 1).

Plosone

Stimulation with the tinnitus-like tone is more likely to evoke the tinnitus network and synchronizations between the nodes of the network while control tones are less likely to evoke such a response.

Plosone

In a carefully controlled tone, Haji Mara urged him to defect.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "control tone" in writing, ensure that the context clearly indicates what or whose tone is being controlled. This might involve specifying a voice, a piece of writing, or even a social environment.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "control tone" implies complete dominance. Often, influence is a more accurate descriptor, as total control over something like public discourse is rarely achievable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "control tone" primarily functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun. It suggests the action of managing or directing a particular feeling or atmosphere. According to Ludwig, it correctly describes actions related to audio, communication, or behavioral management.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "control tone" is a grammatically sound and semantically valid phrase used to describe the act of managing or directing the emotional quality of something. According to Ludwig, its use spans diverse domains such as audio management, communication strategies, and behavioral oversight. While generally neutral in register, it appears most frequently in news and media contexts. Remember to use the phrase judiciously, ensuring clarity about what or whose tone is being influenced, and to consider alternatives like "manage tone" or "influence tone" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

manage tone

Focuses on overseeing and guiding the overall feeling conveyed.

regulate tone

Highlights the act of adjusting the feeling or mood.

modulate tone

Emphasizes changing or varying the emotional coloring.

dictate tone

Stresses the power to set or determine the emotion.

influence tone

Indicates the ability to affect the feeling indirectly.

shape tone

Highlights the act of molding or forming the emotional content.

adjust tone

Refers to making small changes for improvement.

determine tone

Emphasizes the power to decide the feeling.

set the tone

Focuses on establishing an initial emotional environment.

direct the tone

Highlights the act of guiding the emotional presentation.

FAQs

How can I effectively "control tone" in my writing?

Focus on word choice, sentence structure, and the overall emotional presentation. Aim for consistency and clarity to guide the reader's experience.

What does it mean to "control tone" in a social setting?

It refers to managing the emotional environment, usually by setting an example with your own behavior and communication style. It doesn't mean suppressing others' feelings but guiding the overall interaction.

When is it appropriate to try to "control tone" in a conversation?

It's most appropriate when aiming for constructive outcomes, such as resolving conflicts or fostering collaboration. Avoid trying to "control tone" to suppress dissenting opinions or manipulate others.

Are there alternatives to the phrase "control tone"?

Yes, depending on the context, you might use "manage tone", "regulate tone", or "influence tone". Each carries slightly different connotations regarding the degree of influence.