soften the blow
Meaning(s)
1. lessen the negative impact of something
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
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.