Overtone

usgb/ˈəʊvərtəʊn/
noun

An additional, usually subtle quality, aspect, or implication.

There was an overtone of anger in his voice.
Visual representation of "overtone" - An additional, usually subtle quality, aspect, or implication.

Often appears as...

  • overtone of anger
  • subtle overtone
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "overtone"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Layer

Overtone adds a layer of emotion or attitude to a statement, not just fact.

Illustration for Emotional Layer
His compliment had an overtone of sarcasm.
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Subtle Implication

An overtone is often not direct but suggests something indirectly.

Illustration for Subtle Implication
She noticed a threatening overtone in their warning.
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Context Sensitivity

Understand the context to accurately identify the overtone.

Illustration for Context Sensitivity
Despite the apology, there was an overtone of blame.
Visual representation of the word "Overtone"

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