tone of voice; implication; manner
Meanings
3 senses · 10 examplesnoun
tone of voice; manner of speaking; overbearing air
Describes the attitude, confidence, or authority conveyed in one's speech. Often used with adjectives like 'big' (大) to describe an arrogant tone.
He really has quite an arrogant tone.
The leader spoke in a very serious tone.
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Don't use this commanding tone when speaking to me.
noun
implication; hint; what one really means; drift of one's remarks
Refers to the underlying meaning, intention, or attitude that is suggested but not explicitly stated in one's words. Often used with verbs like 'probe' (探) or 'listen to' (听).
Sound him out to see what he really thinks.
Judging from his tone, he seems to find this matter difficult.
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From the sound of him, he has already agreed.
noun
tone (indicating emotion); note; manner suggesting a feeling
Describes the emotional quality, mood, or feeling conveyed through speech. Often modified by adjectives describing emotions.
a serious tone
a humorous tone
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a complaining tone
The teacher spoke to us in an encouraging tone.