tone down
The phrase "tone down" is often used to suggest making something less intense, harsh, or offensive, commonly in speech, behavior, or presentation.
Definition
B2Communication
(idiomatic, informal)To use less aggressive or confrontational language.
Example
- The teacher asked him to tone down his language during the debate.
B2General Behavior
(idiomatic)To make one's actions or behavior less intense or extreme.
Example
- She decided to tone down her enthusiasm to fit in with the group's more reserved demeanor.
B2Creative Arts
(informal)To reduce the brightness or intensity of colors or sounds.
Example
- The artist toned down the colors in the painting to achieve a more subdued look.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "tone down":
take down a notchdamp downdampen downquieten downquiet downturn downdumb downtalk downwater downkeep downtake the edge offslow downcool offease upthrottle downcalm downdress downcool outcool downtone upmake downwind downlighten upsmooth outmix downscale downtamp downslim downlow keysoften uplevel outdarken upsize downpipe downlive downhush downback downcool ittune outcut downcut backcut down to size