easy
Warm water can soften the clay.
What does Soften mean?
make softer or gentler.
Dictionary definition
To make something softer, gentler, or less harsh.
Example sentences
Soften in a sentence
medium
A kind smile can soften a difficult conversation.
hard
Writers may soften strong language to make a message sound more respectful.
Writing practice
Ready to write your own? Study the examples, then practice soften in a sentence with Sentence Builder checklist feedback.
Quick practice
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Practice the meaning of Soften
Answer three quick questions about its meaning and related words.
Question 1 of 3
Practice 1
What does soften mean?
Soften means to make something less hard, harsh, or strong.
Practice 2
Which word is closest in meaning to soften?
Ease is close in meaning to soften.
Practice 3
Which word is a useful contrast for soften?
Harden is a strong opposite of soften.
Practice complete
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You completed 3 questions.
Pronunciation coach
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Soften
Voice settings
Sounds like
saw · fun · strongest beat: saw
Tap each sound part, then blend the whole word together.
Learn
WordSoften.
Partverb.
MeaningSoften means make softer or gentler.
ExampleExample: Warm water can soften the clay.
Word breakdown
2 syllables. Say each part, then blend the word.
- Syllables
- saw · fun
- Strongest beat
- saw
- Ending
- fun
- Tip
- Put a little extra energy on saw.
Your turn
Say Soften
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Nice work—you practiced soften.
Synonyms
Words like Soften
Antonyms
Opposite words
Synonym practice
Want to practice soften synonyms in context? Try a Synonym Search question like "Warm water will soften the clay," then compare close word choices. Practice soften synonyms.
Word family
Soften word family
Base word
soften
verb
softens
Makes softer now or often.
verb
softened
Made softer in the past.
verb
softening
Making softer now.
Related words
Explore related words
Student support
Understand Soften
Hint for students
make softer or gentler.
Common mix-up
Soften is not the same as harden. Soften means make softer or gentler.
Try it in class or at home
Read this model sentence: A kind smile can soften a difficult conversation. Clue words: kind, smile, difficult. Underline clue words that show why soften fits instead of harden. Now write one new sentence that shows soften without using the word soften. Ask: Does my sentence clearly show soften?
Teacher prompt
Ask students to explain this model sentence: "A kind smile can soften a difficult conversation." Why does soften fit better than harden?
Learning activities
Practice Soften and explore more word games
Cards labelled “Practice SOFTEN” keep this word in focus. Explore cards open games with other words.
Practice SOFTEN
Sentence Builder
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Context Clue Challenge
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