soften
UK ['sɒf.ən] US ['sɑ:.fən] verb intransitive or transitive
LESS HARD 软化
■to become soft, or to make something soft （使）变软，（使）软化•You can soften the butter by warming it gently.你可以把牛油稍微加热使其变软。 •These dried apples will soften (up) if you soak them in water.如果你把这些苹果干浸在水中，它们就会软化。
UK ['sɒf.ən] US ['sɑ:.fən] verb intransitive or transitive
MORE GENTLE 更温和
■to become more gentle, or to make someone do this （使）变温和；（使）缓和•The news will upset him - we must think of a way to soften the blow (= make the news less unpleasant for him).这消息会让他伤心——我们得想个办法来缓和一下。 •Would you say the government's stance on law and order has softened?你说政府在法律法规方面的态度有所软化了吗？
UK ['sɒf.ən] US ['sɑ:.fən] verb intransitive or transitive
Phrasal Verbs [M] soften sb up
■to do things that will please someone so that they will do what you want 打动，取悦，讨好（某人）•You're trying to soften me up so I'll drive you to Jodie's house, aren't you?你这是想讨好我，这样我就可以开车把你送到乔迪家了，不是吗？ |