Expressions used in Everyday Spoken English in Social and Professional contexts
soften the blow
soften the blow
Meaning(s)
1) lessen the negative impact of something
How to MemorizePopularity HighProfessional HighSocial
compensation softened the blow
Analysis
A negative event is often referred to as a 'blow.' Something that softens it makes its impact less severe, but, crucially, does not make it disappear entirely. Therefore, 'soften the blow' should never be used in a context where a problem no longer exists. It is an expression that is common in both a social and professional environment.
Social Examples (Basic)
I thought it would soften the blow if I told Anne the bad news instead of her hearing it from a stranger.
There's no way of softening the blow. You're just going to have to come straight out and say it.
Professional Examples (Basic)
The company offered a very generous redundancy package to soften the blow for the people who were being let go.
I was disappointed not to get the job I interviewed for, but the fact that they are considering me for another position softened the blow.