English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word "soften up" in English

What does "soften up" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

soften up

US /ˈsɑːf.ən ʌp/
UK /ˈsɑːf.ən ʌp/
"soften up" picture

Phrasal Verb

1.

to make someone feel more friendly, less angry, or more willing to help

Example:
•
He tried to soften up the boss before asking for a raise.
•
A little flattery can often soften up even the toughest critics.
Synonym:
mollifyappeaseconciliatepacifyplacate
2.

to make something less hard or firm

Example:
•
You need to knead the dough to soften it up before baking.
•
The rain helped to soften up the dry ground.
Synonym:
softentenderizerelaxloosen
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Related Word:
water softenerupcome up withfollow upkeep up withlook up toset up