Pronunciation: [sˈɒft tˈʌt͡ʃ] (IPA) 
The spelling of the phrase "soft touch" is straightforward. "Soft" is spelled S-O-F-T and represents the pronunciation /sɒft/ in IPA. The word "touch" is spelled T-O-U-C-H and represents the pronunciation /tʌtʃ/ in IPA. Put together, the phrase is pronounced /sɒft tʌtʃ/ and refers to a gentle or delicate approach or treatment. The spelling of this phrase accurately represents its pronunciation in English.
Soft touch (noun):
1. A person who is easily influenced or taken advantage of due to their gentle and compassionate nature. They often exhibit empathy and sympathy towards others, making them susceptible to manipulation or exploitation. Soft touches are trusting individuals who believe in the goodness of others, sometimes to their own detriment.
2. Informal term referring to someone who is easily moved emotionally or deeply affected by sentimental or touching situations. This type of person may be more prone to tears or overwhelming feelings in response to heartwarming gestures, sad stories, or acts of kindness.
3. A skillful or sensitive approach in handling or dealing with a situation or person. This often involves tact, diplomacy, and understanding, allowing for effective and gentle influence. Soft touch strategies aim at achieving cooperation, agreement, or resolution without causing offense or confrontation.
4. Pertaining to an object or material that has a gentle, smooth, or velvety texture. Soft touch may refer to luxurious fabrics, coatings, or finishes that provide a pleasant tactile experience. This term is commonly used in the context of upholstery, clothing, packaging, or any item where the tactile sensation is an important quality.
The term "soft touch" can have different meanings depending on the context, but generally refers to people, emotions, interpersonal skills, or physical properties that display gentleness, sensitivity, or ease of influence.
The term "soft touch" originated in the mid-20th century and has its roots in English idiomatic expressions.
The word "soft" in this context refers to a person who is easily influenced or vulnerable to persuasion, usually due to their kind, compassionate, or sympathetic nature. It suggests that such individuals are easily approached and manipulated by others in various ways, often for personal gain.
The word "touch" emphasizes the act of influencing or manipulating such a person. It implies that one can subtly and gently exert control or exploit the vulnerability of a soft-hearted person due to their predisposition to be lenient, sympathetic, or generous.
Overall, the etymology of "soft touch" reflects the concept of exploiting someone's emotional vulnerability or gullibility, often for personal gain.
