SOFTPEDALED Meaning and
Definition
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The term "soft-pedaled" refers to the act of downplaying, toning down, or minimizing something with the intention of making it sound less influential, important, or controversial. The term is derived from the world of music, where the soft pedal on a piano is used to decrease the volume and intensity of the sound produced by the instrument.
In a broader sense, "soft-pedaled" describes a deliberate effort to present a particular topic or issue in a more subdued or restrained manner. It may involve using cautious language, employing euphemisms, or avoiding direct statements. By soft-pedaling, individuals or entities often seek to mitigate the potential impact or consequences of their statements, actions, or decisions.
The term is commonly used in various contexts, including politics, journalism, business, and interpersonal communication. For instance, a politician might soft-pedal a controversial policy proposal to avoid public backlash. Similarly, a company might soft-pedal negative news about their product to maintain customer trust. In interpersonal relationships, one might soft-pedal a sensitive topic to avoid causing hurt or discomfort.
Overall, "soft-pedaled" signifies a strategy used to lessen the impact or significance of something, with the purpose of managing potential consequences, perceptions, or reactions. It involves taking a gentle approach or employing subtle techniques to navigate potentially contentious or delicate situations.
Common Misspellings for SOFTPEDALED
- aoftpedaled
- zoftpedaled
- xoftpedaled
- doftpedaled
- eoftpedaled
- woftpedaled
- siftpedaled
- skftpedaled
- slftpedaled
- spftpedaled
- s0ftpedaled
- s9ftpedaled
- sodtpedaled
- soctpedaled
- sovtpedaled
- sogtpedaled
- sottpedaled
- sortpedaled
- sofrpedaled
- soffpedaled
Etymology of SOFTPEDALED
The term softpedaled is derived from the metaphorical sense of the word soft pedal, which is used in music. In a piano, there is a pedal called the soft pedal or una corda that, when pressed, shifts the action of the keys to strike only one string per note, resulting in a softer and more muted sound.
Metaphorically, the concept of soft pedal has been extended to other areas, indicating a less forceful or restrained approach. The word softpedaled emerged as a verb in the early 20th century in American English, specifically in the context of downplaying, toning down, or minimizing something in order to avoid controversy, conflict, or negative reactions.
So, the word softpedaled is a figurative use of the musical term soft pedal.
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