SOFT Meaning and
Definition
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Soft is an adjective that is commonly used to describe something that has a smooth or yielding texture or surface. It refers to a material or object that is not hard, rigid, or rough, but rather, gentle and pliable to the touch. Softness is often associated with comfort, delicacy, and flexibility.
The word can also be used metaphorically to describe qualities that are not physical in nature. In this context, it refers to qualities such as tenderness, leniency, or mildness. Soft can describe a gentle or sympathetic personality, indicating someone who is understanding and compassionate. It can also denote a mild or moderate characteristic, suggesting a lack of harshness, aggression, or intensity. Additionally, this term may describe sensations, sounds, or visual appearances that are soothing, muffled, or muted, implying a sense of quietude or relaxation.
Softness can also refer to a lack of firmness or resoluteness, suggesting weakness or vulnerability. When used to describe sound, it indicates a low volume or a gentle timbre. In the context of color, soft typically represents shades that are light or muted in intensity.
Overall, the adjective soft encompasses a range of meanings, including physical attributes, emotional qualities, and sensory perceptions, all conveying elements of smoothness, flexibility, gentleness, or mildness.
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Not hard, not resistant, yielding.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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• Not hard; easily yielding to pressure; not rough; not violent; smooth to the touch; flowing; easily yielding to persuasion or any influence; impresible; gentle; mild; delicate; weak; simple; not unfeeling; not strong or glaring; pleasing to any sense.
• For be soft, int. hold; not so fast.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for SOFT *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for SOFT
Etymology of SOFT
The word "soft" can be traced back to the Old English word "sōfte". It is believed to have originated from the Proto-Germanic word "samftijaz" which meant "gentle" or "having a pleasing quality". This Proto-Germanic term is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "sem" which meant "together" or "one".
Over time, the word "soft" has retained its original meaning of being gentle, delicate, or not hard. It is commonly used to describe things that are not firm or resistant to pressure.
Idioms with the word SOFT
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walk soft
The idiom "walk softly" typically means to be cautious or discreet in one's actions or words, especially in a situation that requires careful navigation or sensitivity. It implies the need to tread carefully or avoid drawing attention to oneself. It can also suggest being subtle, humble, or exhibiting humility in various contexts.
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soft touch
The idiom "soft touch" refers to a person who is easily persuaded, manipulated, or taken advantage of due to their kind, gentle, or lenient nature.
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be/go soft in the head
The idiom "be/go soft in the head" means to be mentally or intellectually weak or not thinking clearly. It refers to someone who lacks good judgment or is easily influenced or manipulated.
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have a soft corner for somebody/something
The idiom "have a soft corner for somebody/something" means to have a special affection or fondness for someone or something. It implies that you feel a strong emotional connection or show a certain level of favoritism towards a particular person or thing.
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soft soap
The idiom "soft soap" means to flatter or cajole someone in order to gain their favor or manipulate them. It refers to using excessive compliments, sweet talk, or persuasive language to influence or deceive others.
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soft in the head
The idiom "soft in the head" refers to someone who is considered foolish, lacking intelligence, or mentally unstable. It suggests that the person's mind or thinking processes are weak or easily influenced.
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be soft on (someone)
The idiom "be soft on (someone)" means to be lenient, forgiving, or not strict in one's judgment or treatment towards someone. It refers to showing sympathy or a lack of harshness in dealing with someone's actions or behavior.
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a soft touch
The idiom "a soft touch" refers to a person who is easily convinced, influenced, or taken advantage of, especially when it comes to providing help, support, or money. They are highly susceptible to manipulation or exploitation due to their kind and generous nature.
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soft money
The idiom "soft money" refers to funds that are not regulated by laws and regulations, particularly in political contexts. It generally refers to the legal yet unrestricted and unregulated donations made to political parties or organizations that are not subject to normal campaign finance laws. These donations can be used for various purposes, such as issue advocacy, voter registration, and party-building activities. The term "soft money" distinguishes such funds from "hard money," which represents donations made directly to a candidate's campaign and is subject to strict contribution limits and disclosure requirements.
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have a soft spot for (someone or something)
The idiom "have a soft spot for (someone or something)" means to have a particular fondness, affection, or weakness for a specific person, thing, or idea. It suggests a tender and emotional attachment towards that individual or object, often resulting in a benevolent or sympathetic attitude towards them.
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go soft
To "go soft" is an idiomatic expression that means to become less determined, motivated, or resolute. It typically refers to a situation where someone loses their drive, enthusiasm, or intensity in pursuing a goal or completing a task. It can also imply a loss of toughness, strength, or firmness in character or attitude.
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be soft in the head
The idiom "be soft in the head" refers to someone who is foolish, easily deceived, or lacking intelligence. It suggests that the person's thinking or decision-making abilities are weak or flawed.
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soft on
The idiom "soft on" typically refers to being lenient or not strict in dealing with a particular issue or group of people. It can be used to describe a person or a policy that is not tough or aggressive when it comes to handling a certain matter.
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soft as a baby's bottom
The idiom "soft as a baby's bottom" refers to something that is extremely smooth, delicate, or perfect in texture. This phrase is often used to describe the softness of a person's skin or an object's surface, emphasizing its exceptional smoothness and softness.
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be soft on
The idiom "be soft on" refers to a lenient or tolerant approach towards someone or something, often implying a lack of firmness, strictness, or criticism. It suggests being gentle or forgiving towards a person, group, or behavior, even when it may necessitate a more stern or critical response.
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be an easy/soft touch
The idiom "be an easy/soft touch" refers to a person who is easily persuaded, manipulated, or taken advantage of by others, usually due to being generous, kind-hearted, or naive. Such an individual is often willing to help or give without questioning or setting boundaries, making them an easy target for those seeking personal gain.
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soft life
The idiom "soft life" refers to a luxurious, comfortable, and easy way of living without facing many difficulties or challenges. It connotes a life of leisure, indulgence, and minimal effort or hardship.
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soft fire makes sweet malt
The idiom "soft fire makes sweet malt" means that patience and gradual effort produce better results or outcomes. It suggests that rushing or applying excessive force may not yield the desired outcome, but a gentle and steady approach will lead to success or sweetness.
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have a soft spot (in one's heart) for sm or an animal
The idiom "have a soft spot (in one's heart) for someone or an animal" means to have a strong affection or emotional attachment towards a particular person or animal. It suggests that the person has a tender or sentimental feeling towards them, often causing them to be more forgiving or accommodating.
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soft sell
The idiom "soft sell" refers to a marketing or sales approach that is subtle, persuasive, and non-aggressive. It involves gently promoting a product or service without applying pressure or making forceful demands, allowing the customer to make an informed decision on their own terms.
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have a soft spot for somebody/something
To have a soft spot for somebody/something means to feel a strong affection or liking for them/it, often without any specific reason. It suggests that you are particularly fond or sympathetic towards that person or thing, even when others may not feel the same way.
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an easy/a soft touch
The idiom "an easy/a soft touch" refers to a person who is easily persuaded or influenced, especially when it comes to giving or lending money, helping others, or being taken advantage of. It implies that the individual is lenient, trusting, or vulnerable, making it easy for others to exploit their kindness or generosity.
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have a soft spot for or an animal
The idiom "have a soft spot for an animal" means to have a particular affection or tenderness towards a specific animal. It suggests a strong emotional connection or a special fondness for the creature in question. This idiom often implies that the person is more caring or sympathetic towards animals than they may be towards other beings or things.
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soft job
The idiom "soft job" refers to a job or task that is considered relatively easy, low-stress, and requiring minimal physical or mental effort. It suggests that the work involved is undemanding or less challenging compared to others.
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be soft on sb
To be soft on someone means to be lenient, forgiving, or indulgent towards them, often overlooking their faults, mistakes, or wrongdoings. It can also refer to showing favoritism or bias towards that person, not holding them accountable for their actions.
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go soft in the head
The idiom "go soft in the head" typically means to become mentally weak or feeble-minded, often used to describe someone who is acting illogically or making poor decisions due to a lack of rational thinking.
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have a soft spot
The idiom "have a soft spot" refers to having a particular fondness or affection for someone or something. It suggests that there is a special place in one's heart or emotions reserved for that person or thing, often leading to a greater leniency or indulgence towards them.
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have a soft spot for sb/sth
The idiom "have a soft spot for sb/sth" means to have a strong liking or affection for someone or something, often in spite of their flaws or imperfections. It suggests a particular fondness or sentimental attachment towards a person or thing.
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soft on sth
The idiom "soft on something" typically means being lenient or permissive towards a particular issue or subject. It often implies a lack of firmness or toughness in handling or dealing with that particular thing.
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soft berth
The idiom "soft berth" refers to a comfortable or easy position or situation, often suggesting a job or opportunity that provides security, minimal effort, or favorable circumstances.
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soft answer turneth away wrath
The idiom "soft answer turneth away wrath" means that responding to anger or conflict with a calm and gentle manner can help diffuse the situation and prevent further anger or confrontation.
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soft core
The idiom "soft core" refers to something that is relatively mild, gentle, or less extreme in nature, typically in comparison to something else. It can be used to describe content, activities, or situations that may be considered less intense, explicit, or controversial.
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the soft/easy option
"The soft/easy option" refers to choosing the least challenging or demanding course of action in a given situation, often resulting in a less optimal outcome compared to taking a more difficult or less comfortable path.
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a soft/an easy touch
Someone who is easily persuaded or manipulated, especially when it comes to giving money or assistance.
Similar spelling words for SOFT
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