soften

• Verb, das bezeichnet, etwas weicher, weniger hart oder weniger streng zu machen bzw. selbst weicher oder nachgiebiger zu werden.

A verb used to indicate the act of making something less hard, firm, or severe, or becoming less harsh or intense.

1. Make less hardB1formal

   To make something physically less hard, firm, or rigid.

   Weichmachen

   • The heat will soften the butter.
   • She used a conditioner to soften her hair.
   • Soak the beans overnight to soften them.

   Synonymemeltmollifypulpthaw

   Antonymehardensolidifystiffen

2. Reduce intensityB2formal

   To make something less severe, harsh, or forceful.

   Abschwächen

   • The government tried to soften the impact of the new tax.
   • He softened his criticism with a few compliments.
   • The cushions soften the blow of a fall.

   Synonymealleviatediminisheaselessenmitigatemoderatetempertone down

   Antonymeaggravateheightenintensifysharpenstrengthen

3. Become gentle or yieldingB2formal

   To become more gentle, kind, or less strict in attitude.

   Sanfter werden

   • Her expression softened when she saw the child.
   • He refused to soften his stance on the issue.
   • The teacher softened after hearing the student's explanation.

   Synonymeeasemellowmoderaterelaxrelentthawunbendyield

   Antonymehardenstiffenstrengthentoughen

4. Modify sound or imageB2formalIT

   To make sounds or images less sharp, loud, or distinct.

   Abschwächen

   • The editor softened the background music in the film.
   • You can soften the lighting with a lampshade.
   • The software can soften the edges of a photograph.

   Synonymeblurdiffusedimdullfademufflemutesubduetone down

   Antonymeamplifyhardenintensifysharpen

5. Yield to influenceB2informal

   To give in to pressure, persuasion, or influence.

   Sich beeinflussen lassen

   • He eventually softened and agreed to help.
   • She refused to soften under the intense negotiation.
   • The company softened its position after public backlash.

   Synonymeacquiescebendcapitulategive inmellowmeltrelentthawweakenyield

   Antonymedefyopposeresistwithstand