1 C1 neutral
For colours, textures, or styles to match or harmonise well with each other.
"The cushions tone in beautifully with the grey walls of the living room."
inseparable
tone in
C1 neutral inseparable intransitive
To harmonise or coordinate in colour, shade, or style with something else.
In plain English
To match or go well with the colours or style of something.
What does "tone in" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To come into matching tone with something.
Actually means
To match or go well with the colours or style of something.
Usage tip
Used in interior design, fashion, and art. Less common than 'tone with'. Refers to colours or shades that complement or match each other. Chiefly British English.
Words that pair with "tone in"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
colour shade wallpaper furniture outfit decor
How to conjugate "tone in"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
tone in
I/you/we/they
3rd person
tones in
he/she/it
Past simple
toned in
yesterday
Past participle
toned in
have + pp
-ing form
toning in
continuous
Hear "tone in" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "tone in" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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