soften up
To make someone less strict or hard to deal with so they'll agree with you more easily.
Meanings
To make someone more receptive, agreeable, or sympathetic through kind treatment or persuasion.
"She brought him his favourite meal to soften him up before asking for a pay rise."
In military or strategic contexts, to weaken an enemy's defences or resolve with preliminary attacks before a major assault.
"The air force spent two days softening up the enemy positions before the ground troops advanced."
To become or make something physically softer or less rigid.
"Leave the butter out of the fridge to soften up before you mix it into the dough."
Used in personal, business, and military contexts. In personal contexts it often means warming someone up emotionally. In military or strategic contexts it means attacking to weaken before the main assault.
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Forms
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Synonyms
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