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to soften up
[phrase form: soften]
01
to be kind to someone with the intention of increasing the chances of them agreeing to one's request
Examples
She decided to soften up her colleague by complimenting their work before discussing the project changes.
02
to strategically weaken an enemy, making them more vulnerable to subsequent attacks or negotiations
Examples
Diplomats engaged in negotiations to soften up the rival nation before discussing more contentious issues.
03
to make something less hard or rough
Examples
The constant stream of water over the years began to soften up the jagged edges of the stone steps.
