take the edge off
US /teɪk ðɪ ɛdʒ ɔf/
UK /teɪk ðɪ ɛdʒ ɔf/
1.
to make something less intense, severe, or unpleasant
:
•
A warm bath can help take the edge off a stressful day.
•
He had a drink to take the edge off his nerves before the presentation.