What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
voice
Example
Her voice was soft and soothing. [voice: noun]
Example
He used his voice to advocate for social justice. [voice: noun]
Example
I want to find my own voice as a writer. [voice: metaphorical]
tone
Example
Her tone was sharp and critical. [tone: noun]
Example
He spoke in a friendly and welcoming tone. [tone: noun]
Example
The tone of the article was informative and objective. [tone: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Voice is more commonly used than tone in everyday language, especially when referring to the physical sound of a person's speaking or singing voice. Tone is more commonly used in writing and formal contexts to describe the emotional or stylistic quality of communication.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between voice and tone?
While both voice and tone can be used in various formality levels, tone is more commonly used in formal contexts to describe the emotional or stylistic quality of communication.