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.

Maria O’Donnell, a journalist who drew Milei’s ire after urging him to tone down his rhetoric, said the president often appears to treat criticism as a personal attack.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

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

But for that to happen leaders, both civilian and military, in both countries need to tone down the uncompromising nationalist rhetoric which now characterises their dispute.

From BBC • Sep. 7, 2025

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

I tried to tone down the relief so she wouldn’t get her feelings hurt.

From "Twilight" by Stephenie Meyer