shift in tone

USAGE SUMMARY

"shift in tone" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a change in the manner of speaking, writing, or other expression. For example, "The attorney's shift in tone during the deposition indicated he was trying to conceal something."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the shift in tone is clear.

The Guardian

Mr. McCain's remarks were a shift in tone.

The New York Times

In both parties, there was a notable shift in tone.

The New York Times

The changes were accompanied by a shift in tone.

The New York Times - Sports

MS. WATERS'S shift in tone is not without precedent.

The New York Times

Its title alone suggests the shift in tone urgently required.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Bank watchers said the shift in tone on Thursday was a major victory for him.

The New York Times

Most noticeable has been the shift in tone and the promises of engagement.

The New York Times

The shift in tone at the I.A.E.A. seems linked to a change at the top.

The New Yorker

Borrowing costs for other countries rose, too, Spain's among them.Why the shift in tone?

The Economist

The result, though, is not simply more musicals, but a shift in tone.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "shift in tone", be specific about what changed. Was it a change in formality, aggression, or optimism? Adding detail strengthens your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "shift in tone" without specifying what caused the change or its impact. Without context, it can sound vague and uninformative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shift in tone" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the subject or object of a sentence, describing a change in the manner of speaking or writing. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts to indicate altered attitudes or expressions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "shift in tone" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe a change in the manner of communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. To use it effectively, be specific about the nature of the change and its impact. While alternatives like "change in attitude" or "alteration in style" exist, "shift in tone" remains a clear and widely understood choice. Avoiding vagueness and providing context will ensure your writing is precise and informative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

change in attitude

Focuses specifically on a change in mindset or disposition.

alteration in style

Emphasizes a modification in the manner of presentation or expression.

modification in approach

Highlights a change in the method or strategy used.

transition in demeanor

Indicates a change in outward behavior or conduct.

adjustment in mood

Suggests a change in emotional state or atmosphere.

swing in sentiment

Implies a change in prevailing feeling or opinion.

variation in expression

Highlights a change in the way something is communicated.

drift in emphasis

Indicates a subtle change in what is being highlighted or stressed.

reversal of sentiment

Conveys a complete turnaround in feeling or opinion.

evolution of perspective

Suggests a gradual development or change in viewpoint.

FAQs

How can I effectively illustrate a "shift in tone" in writing?

Provide contrasting examples of the tone before and after the shift. This can include direct quotes or descriptions of the change in language, attitude, or approach.

What are some alternatives to "shift in tone" that I can use to add variety to my writing?

Consider using phrases like "change in attitude", "alteration in style", or "modification in approach" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "shift in tone" formal or informal language?

"Shift in tone" is considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, the surrounding language should match the overall tone of your writing.

What's the difference between "shift in tone" and "change in tone"?

The phrases "shift in tone" and "change in tone" are largely interchangeable. Both describe an alteration in the manner of speaking or writing. The choice often comes down to personal preference or stylistic flow.