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 late-night dance party set the scene for the days ahead, bringing together tastemakers from the LGBTQIA+ community to mark the final weekend of worldwide Pride month.
—
Kristen Tauer, Footwear News, 27 June 2025
Detective decor, candles and moody florals from Flowers by Janie set the scene.
—Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 22 May 2025
Favorite collections: Dior, Willy Chavarria and Dries Van Noten
Best show format: Ami set the scene at the top location of Place des Victoires, with the looming storm casting a dramatic light on the bronze equestrian statue of Louis XIV in all its glory.
—Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 30 June 2025
The Ampere executive set the scene by showing how the European content business has benefitted from the U.S. studios widening their production bases and streamers setting up shop in several parts of the continent, resulting in orders for thousands of hours of first-run programming.
—Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 9 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for set the scene
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Kristen Tauer, Footwear News, 27 June 2025
Detective decor, candles and moody florals from Flowers by Janie set the scene.
—Ashlyn Robinette, People.com, 22 May 2025
Favorite collections: Dior, Willy Chavarria and Dries Van Noten
Best show format: Ami set the scene at the top location of Place des Victoires, with the looming storm casting a dramatic light on the bronze equestrian statue of Louis XIV in all its glory.
—Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 30 June 2025
The Ampere executive set the scene by showing how the European content business has benefitted from the U.S. studios widening their production bases and streamers setting up shop in several parts of the continent, resulting in orders for thousands of hours of first-run programming.
—Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 9 June 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 19 Jul. 2025.
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