# softening

/ˈsɔfənɪŋ/ (US) · /sˈɒfənɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/softening
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. becoming physically soft

noun · CEFR B2

the process of something hard becoming soft or easier to press.

For teachers: the physical process by which a substance loses its rigidity or hardness.

- The softening of the butter made it much easier to spread on the bread.
- The gradual softening of the clay allowed the sculptor to refine the delicate facial features of the statue before the final firing.

### 2. becoming less strict or severe

noun · CEFR B2

when a person or a rule becomes less strict or more kind.

For teachers: a reduction in the severity, intensity, or strictness of an attitude, policy, or emotional state.

- We noticed a softening in his tone after we explained our situation.
- Economists observed a softening of the central bank's stance on interest rates following the latest inflation report.

## Examples

- The softening of the butter makes it easier to spread.
- Economists noted a softening of the housing market as interest rates began to rise and demand slowed down.
- The diplomat observed a gradual softening of the government's stance on trade, suggesting that a formal agreement might be reached before the end of the fiscal year.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.