tone down

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

While the first day of their summit was light on concrete deals, the overarching take is that both countries are eager to tone down their economic rivalry.

From Barron's • May 14, 2026

Plaza says that Waters is known for being provocative and loves reading tabloids but that he asked to tone down Armando’s snide put-downs of celebrities.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2026

A longtime coach would have told him to tone down such commentary, but oh right: Alcaraz released his longtime coach, Juan Carlos Ferrero, a few weeks ago.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 2, 2026

Lasnik also received a pizza delivered in the name of Salas’ son after he called on Trump and his supporters to tone down the rhetoric directed toward the federal courts.

From Salon • Aug. 1, 2025

“You know, May’s not here. You can tone down the whole noble prince thing. Besides, you’re probably a bit more useful to them alive than dead.”

From "Half Upon a Time" by James Riley