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Soften - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Soften means to make something less hard, harsh, or severe. It can describe physical changes, like softening butter, or emotional ones, like softening one’s tone to sound kinder.

soften

/ˈsɔfən/ /ˈsɒfən/

Definition:

To make or become less hard, severe, or harsh.

Synonyms:

weaken, moderate, temper, alleviate

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

harden, toughen, stiffen

Common Collocations:

soften the blow, soften skin, soften water, soften tone

Derivatives:

softener, softening, softened

Usage Tips:

Use "soften" to describe making something gentler or less intense physically or emotionally.

Common Phrases:

soften the blow, soften up someone’s heart, soften one’s stance

Etymology:

Derived from Old English "sōfte" (gentle) + "-en" (verb-forming suffix).

Examples:

  • 1. The butter will soften if left at room temperature.
  • 2. She tried to soften her criticism with a smile.
  • 3. The rain helped soften the dry soil in the garden.
  • 4. His voice softened when he spoke to the child.

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