Soften/cushion the blow

usgb
verb

To make something unpleasant seem less serious or painful.

She tried to soften the blow by telling him some good news first.
Visual representation of "soften/cushion the blow" - To make something unpleasant seem less serious or painful

Often appears as...

  • to soften the blow
  • soften the blow by

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "soften/cushion the blow"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional Buffer

Used to show empathy by easing into bad news with something less harsh.

Illustration for Emotional Buffer
He brought her favorite flowers to soften the blow before telling her they had to move.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Transitional Phrase

Often used before a contrast or a disappointment is revealed.

Illustration for Transitional Phrase
The team softened the blow by praising her hard work before criticizing the mistakes.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Literal

The phrase is metaphorical and doesn't involve physical softening or cushioning.

Illustration for Not Literal
The severance package is meant to soften the blow of being laid off.
Visual representation of the word "Soften/cushion the blow"

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