SOFTEN UP Meaning and
Definition
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Soften up is a phrasal verb that has various meanings depending on the context in which it is used. The term typically refers to the act of making something or someone less rigid, severe, resistant, or hostile.
In a literal sense, soften up can mean to make something physically less harsh or firm. For example, when cooking meat, it can refer to the process of tenderizing the meat by applying heat or using a marinade to make it more tender and easier to chew.
In a metaphorical sense, soften up is often used when referring to manipulating or altering someone's attitude or behavior through various means. It can involve attempting to make someone more accepting, sympathetic, or cooperative. This can be accomplished through persuasive tactics, providing emotional support, or even by breaking down barriers through gradual exposure to an idea or situation.
The phrase is also commonly used in military contexts, where it refers to the act of weakening or preparing an enemy or target for an upcoming attack or confrontation. This can involve actions such as initiating small-scale engagements or gathering intelligence to reduce the opponent's defenses or morale.
Overall, the term soften up encompasses the idea of bringing about change by reducing rigidity, hostility, or resistance through physical or metaphorical means.
Common Misspellings for SOFTEN UP
- aoften up
- zoften up
- xoften up
- doften up
- eoften up
- woften up
- siften up
- skften up
- slften up
- spften up
- s0ften up
- s9ften up
- sodten up
- socten up
- sovten up
- sogten up
- sotten up
- sorten up
- sofren up
- soffen up
Etymology of SOFTEN UP
The phrase "soften up" is a figurative expression derived from the combination of the words "soften" and "up".
The word "soften" originated from the Middle English word "souften", which ultimately came from the Old English word "sōfte", meaning gentle or having a mild nature. The term can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "samftijaną", indicating pleasantness or smoothness.
The word "up" in this context is a particle used to intensify or reinforce the action. It can be compared to similar expressions where "up" is used, such as "round up" or "gather up".
When combined, "soften up" takes on a metaphorical meaning, often referring to gradually making something less resistant or less harsh. This phrase is commonly used in various contexts, such as psychological manipulation, persuasion, sports, or physical preparation.
Idioms with the word SOFTEN UP
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soften up
To make someone or something less resistant, hostile, or aggressive through persuasion, flattery, or other means.
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