softensoft•en /'sɒf(ə)n/

vt 使软化，使变软；使缓和；使温和

• The lampshade will softened the light. 那个灯罩能使光线柔和一些。

• Try to find a way to soften his attitude. 想个办法使他的态度软下来。

vi

1. 软化，变软

• The butter will soften when taken outside the fridge. 黄油从冰箱里拿出来会变软。

2. 缓和；减轻

• The man's face seemed to soften a lot. 那个人的脸色看上去温和了许多。

• The wind had softened. 风减弱了。

词组soften up

1. 使变软；使温和；安抚

• The butter has begun to soften up. 黄油已经开始变软了。

• We tried to soften her up. 我们试图安抚她。

2. 削弱

• soften up the enemy's resistance 削弱敌人的抵抗

3. 削弱（某人的）抗拒力

• She was softened up by the salesman's flattery. 她被推销员的花言巧语打动。