tone
noun
any sound considered with reference to its quality, pitch, strength, source, etc..
had toned
-
past perfectof tone.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
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.
In the months before the balloon incident, China’s diplomatic corps had toned down its typically acerbic rhetoric about Washington.
From New York Times ● Feb. 4, 2023
In his teen years, he had toned his large frame through a dedicated regime of swimming and cycling.
From Salon ● May 28, 2022
The report found that Slaven had toned the letter down from the rhetoric of an early version drafted in part by staff.
From Washington Post ● May 21, 2022
A senior U.S. law enforcement official said Morton's current website was still important among U.S. militants, although Morton had toned down his writings.
From Reuters ● Jun. 1, 2013
The pointed beard of Monsieur Duchemin was no more; and a little stain, artfully applied, had toned the newly exposed flesh to match the tan of the rest.
From Alias the Lone Wolf by Vance, Louis Joseph
