set the theme

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set the theme" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to establish or determine the overarching topic or motif of a piece of writing, presentation, or event. Example: "Before beginning her book, the author took time to set the theme for her story, ensuring that all subsequent chapters were aligned with her central message of love and forgiveness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

This is to set the theme.

Yale University

Orlando's selection set the theme for the draft.

The New York Times - Sports

The words of the brochure set the theme and the tone of the speeches that followed.

The New York Times

This set the theme for the day, which broadened to include the various ways in which global megabanks receive subsidies by being too big to fail.

The New York Times

This time the need to deal with the Governor's remark about the Jewish seat often set the theme for such debates.

The New Yorker

The success of the O.J. series set the theme for the evening as Sarah Paulson, Courtney B. Vance and Sterling K. Brown all scored their first Emmy victories.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

With its unsparing confessional drama, "Faces" set the themes, the moods, and the styles for the rest of his career.

The New Yorker

A crumbling gothic mansion, an unholy love affair, and the interiorality of mind set the themes that Debussy explores in his libretto and score.

Yale University

Then, when a critical mass had assembled, he told the group: "Film at its best helps to illuminate and set the themes of our times".

The New York Times - Style

For years, state media set the themes, saying that the people should change.

Forbes

The authors used the papers retrieved to generate and set the themes and subthemes identified within this review.

BMC Palliative Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When planning a presentation or writing, clearly "set the theme" early to ensure all content aligns with the central message and resonates with the audience.

Common error

Avoid introducing elements that deviate from the initial theme. Ensure all supporting details contribute to and reinforce the core message to maintain coherence and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the theme" functions as a verb phrase, where "set" is the verb and "the theme" is the direct object. It indicates the act of establishing or defining a central idea, topic, or style for something. As Ludwig AI indicates, this is a correct and commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "set the theme" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signifies establishing a central idea or concept. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. Predominantly found in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki contexts, it serves to guide and unify subsequent content or actions. Alternatives such as "establish the motif" offer nuanced options for expressing similar meanings. To use it effectively, clearly define the theme early to maintain coherence. Avoid inconsistencies that detract from the core message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish the motif

Replaces 'theme' with 'motif', indicating a recurring element or idea.

define the subject matter

Focuses on the topic rather than the overarching message.

determine the concept

Highlights the underlying idea or principle being established.

lay the foundation

Emphasizes the initial groundwork being set for subsequent development.

set the tone

Similar to setting the theme, but more focused on the atmosphere or mood.

establish the framework

Emphasizes the structural or organizational aspect of the theme.

designate the central idea

Highlights the selection and designation of the core concept.

formulate the guiding principle

Focuses on creating a fundamental rule or belief to direct actions.

dictate the direction

Suggests a strong influence or control over the course or focus.

craft the master narrative

Conveys a more elaborate and constructed story or account.

FAQs

How do you "set the theme" for a party?

Setting a party's theme involves choosing a unifying concept that influences decorations, activities, and even the dress code. For instance, a luau theme might include tropical decorations and Hawaiian music.

What does it mean to "set the theme" in literature?

In literature, "set the theme" means to establish the central idea or message that the author wants to convey. This often involves recurring motifs and symbols throughout the narrative. For alternative ways to say this, consider "define the subject matter".

How does "set the theme" differ from "set the tone"?

"Set the theme" focuses on the subject matter or central idea, while "set the tone" relates to the overall mood or atmosphere. You can "set the theme" as 'environmental conservation' and "set the tone" as 'urgent and hopeful'.

What are some synonyms for "set the theme"?

Alternatives to "set the theme" include "establish the motif", "determine the concept", or "lay the foundation", depending on the specific context.