set the scene
idiom
1
: to give someone information that is needed to understand something
Before I tell the story, let me set the scene (for you).
2
: to create the conditions in which something can happen
His comments set the scene for an argument.
Examples of set the scene in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The Fed’s decision will set the scene for other central banks who will hold their final policy meetings of the year this week and next.
—
Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 8 Dec. 2025
Velvets, satins, and metallics are all perfectly on cue to set the scene this season.
—Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Nov. 2025
Brisk mornings, blue skies and dry heat set the scene for holiday memories at Southern California’s desert resorts.
—David Dickstein, Oc Register, 29 Oct. 2025
Small tables and larger communal picnic benches set the scene for an evening of rest, relaxation and community.
—Nora Heston Tarte, Mercury News, 21 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for set the scene
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Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 8 Dec. 2025
Velvets, satins, and metallics are all perfectly on cue to set the scene this season.
—Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Nov. 2025
Brisk mornings, blue skies and dry heat set the scene for holiday memories at Southern California’s desert resorts.
—David Dickstein, Oc Register, 29 Oct. 2025
Small tables and larger communal picnic benches set the scene for an evening of rest, relaxation and community.
—Nora Heston Tarte, Mercury News, 21 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for set the scene
Cite this Entry
“Set the scene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/set%20the%20scene. Accessed 20 Dec. 2025.
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