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

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

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

“And one other thing. I’d love it if you could try to tone down the praise talk.”

From "Keeping Pace" by Laurie Morrison