soften
verb [ I or T ] uk/ˈsɒf.ən/ us/ˈsɑː.fən/
(LESS HARD)
（使）变软，（使）软化
to become soft, or to make something soft
You can soften the butter by warming it gently. 你可以把黄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，它们就会变软。
(MORE GENTLE)
（使）变温和;（使）缓和
to become more gentle or less strict, or to make someone do this
The news will upset him - we must think of a way to soften the blow (= make the news less unpleasant for him). 这消息会使他伤心的——我们得想个办法来缓解一下。
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缓和了吗？
Phrasal verb
soften someone up 打动，取悦，讨好（某人）
to do things that will please someone so that they will do what you want
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？