to soften up
[phrase form: soften]
01
软化, 为了影响而友善
to be kind to someone with the intention of increasing the chances of them agreeing to one's request
例子
She decided to soften up her colleague by complimenting their work before discussing the project changes.
她决定在讨论项目变更前先通过表扬同事的工作来软化他们。
Before asking for a favor, he tried to soften up his friend by expressing gratitude for their ongoing support.
在请求帮忙之前，他试图通过表达对他们持续支持的感激来软化他的朋友。
02
软化, 战略上削弱
to strategically weaken an enemy, making them more vulnerable to subsequent attacks or negotiations
例子
Diplomats engaged in negotiations to soften up the rival nation before discussing more contentious issues.
外交官们进行谈判以软化敌对国家的立场，然后再讨论更具争议性的问题。
The military conducted a series of airstrikes to soften up the enemy's defenses before the ground assault.
军方进行了一系列空袭以削弱敌人的防御，然后进行地面攻击。
03
软化, 使变软
to make something less hard or rough
例子
The constant stream of water over the years began to soften up the jagged edges of the stone steps.
多年来不断的水流开始软化石阶的锯齿状边缘。
Regular application of lotion helps soften up dry and rough skin, leaving it smoother.
定期涂抹乳液有助于软化干燥粗糙的皮肤，使其更加光滑。
