overriding tone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "overriding tone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the dominant or prevailing mood or attitude in a piece of writing or speech. Example: "The overriding tone of the article was one of optimism, despite the challenges discussed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

But the overriding tone is a lament for times gone by.

The New Yorker

Josh Cohen describes the lifelogging movement as bearing "an overriding tone of utopian enthusiasm".

The Guardian

The production's crepuscular design befits the overriding tone of mysterious images emerging behind a rain-covered windowpane.

The New York Times

The overriding tone was not puckish, though – it was more a confident, "I did a good job" finality.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

That's the overriding tone: chatty, informal, occasionally spiced by digressions that, echoing Homer's brilliant use of simile, seek humble parallels in contemporary life to the passions that inflamed the Greeks and Trojans.

The New York Times

For all the big ideas and powerful forces packed into the movie's tight spaces, the overriding tone is that of a responsible citizen's earnest lament in the wake of economic meltdown.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

This tone of wry, obsessive observation pervades the novel, almost always overriding the plot's inherent mawkishness, as the characters struggle to work through their difficulties and to grow to understand themselves and one another.

The New York Times - Books

Hers was overriding.

The New York Times - Books

"overriding a doctor's recommendations".

The New York Times

The moral issue is overriding".

The New York Times - Magazine

Overriding that veto would require 27 votes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "overriding tone", ensure that the surrounding context clearly establishes what is being described. For example, specify whose "overriding tone" you are referring to or which situation it characterizes.

Common error

Do not use "overriding tone" without specifying what is contributing to that tone. A vague description weakens the impact of your writing. Instead of saying "The overriding tone was negative", specify what elements contributed to the negativity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "overriding tone" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject complement or object. It describes the primary or most noticeable quality, feeling, or attitude present in something, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "overriding tone" is a noun phrase used to describe the dominant mood or feeling in a particular context. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. It appears most frequently in news and media sources. While its usage is not extremely common, it effectively communicates a prevailing sentiment. Remember to clearly define what contributes to this tone in your writing to avoid vagueness. Related phrases include "dominant atmosphere" and "prevailing sentiment", offering alternative ways to express a similar idea.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dominant atmosphere

Emphasizes the prevalent feeling or mood of a place or situation.

prevailing sentiment

Focuses on the most common or widespread feeling held by a group.

chief characteristic

Highlights the main feature or quality that defines something.

principal characteristic

Highlights the main feature or quality that defines something.

primary mood

Highlights the most noticeable or influential feeling present.

predominant feeling

Stresses the feeling that is most noticeable or has the strongest influence.

keynote

Refers to the central theme or idea that sets the character of something.

central theme

Focuses on the main subject or concept that is the core of the matter.

general impression

Describes the overall feeling or idea one gets from something.

main idea

Highlights the core concept or point being conveyed.

FAQs

How can I use "overriding tone" in a sentence?

You can use "overriding tone" to describe the main feeling or attitude conveyed in a piece of writing, speech, or situation. For example, "The "overriding tone" of the speech was optimistic despite the challenges discussed."

What is a phrase similar to "overriding tone"?

Similar phrases include "dominant atmosphere", "prevailing sentiment", or "chief characteristic", which all convey a similar sense of a primary or dominant quality.

Is it appropriate to use "overriding tone" in formal writing?

Yes, "overriding tone" is appropriate for formal writing. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and can be used effectively in various contexts, including news and media. However, consider alternatives like "principal characteristic" for a more formal tone.

What's the difference between "overriding tone" and "main tone"?

"Overriding tone" implies a stronger sense of dominance or prevalence compared to "main tone". While both refer to the primary feeling or attitude, "overriding" suggests that the tone is particularly significant or influential, overshadowing other potential tones.