soften
/ˈsɒfən/verb
1
- make or become soft or softer使软化; 使变软：
with obj. plant extracts to soften and moisturize the skin用来软化湿润皮肤的植物提取物
no obj. let the vegetables soften over a low heat.让蔬菜在低热下变软一点。
1.1
- with obj.(of a market, currency, or commodity) fall in value（市场、货币或商品）贬值：
the share price has softened recently.
最近股票价格已贬值了。
2
- make or become less severe使柔和; 使缓和：
with obj. a major injection of private cash could soften the blow for the taxpayer私人现金的大量注入可能会缓和对纳税人的打击
no obj. her expression softened at the sight of Diane's white face.看到黛安苍白的脸, 她的表情缓和了下来。
2.1
- with obj. undermine the resistance of (someone)削弱（某人）的抵抗：
the blockade appears a better weapon with which to soften them up for eventual surrender.
封锁看起来是削弱他们抵抗使之最终投降的一个更好的武器。
3
- with obj. remove mineral salts from (water)软化（水）, 从（水）中除去无机盐。