soften crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "soften," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and easily.
Solutions for "soften crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
EASE: To make less severe or intense; to relieve discomfort.
5 Letters
ABATE: To become less intense or widespread; to reduce in amount or intensity.
6 Letters
MELLOW: To make or become soft, sweet, or palatable; to make or become more relaxed and pleasant.
TEMPER: To moderate or reduce the intensity of, especially by adding something to it; to make less harsh.
DAMPEN: To make something less intense or strong; to dull or deaden.
7 Letters
MOLLIFY: To appease the anger or anxiety of (someone); to reduce the intensity of.
8 Letters
MITIGATE: To make something less severe, serious, or painful; to lessen the gravity of (an offense or mistake).
9 Letters
ALLEVIATE: To make suffering, deficiency, or a problem less severe; to relieve or lighten.
More About "soften crossword"
The clue "soften" is a versatile term in crosswords, often requiring solvers to consider various shades of meaning. Beyond the literal act of making something less hard, it frequently refers to reducing intensity, making something milder, or easing a situation. This can range from softening a blow (mitigate, lessen) to softening one's stance on an issue (ease, yield).
Understanding the context is key. Is the clue hinting at a physical change, an emotional adjustment, or a reduction in severity? Pay attention to any accompanying words in the clue that might guide you towards a specific interpretation. For instance, "soften a fabric" would suggest different answers than "soften a punishment."
Many common synonyms for "soften" appear frequently in puzzles. By familiarizing yourself with words like EASE, MELLOW, TEMPER, ABATE, MITIGATE, and ALLEVIATE, you'll be well-prepared for similar clues in future crosswords. The diversity of possible answers makes "soften" a great clue for testing your vocabulary and nuanced understanding of language.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always match the possible answers to the number of letters provided in the grid. This is your primary filter.
- Look for Intersecting Clues: Use letters you've filled in from intersecting words. These crucial letters often reveal the correct answer for your "soften" clue.
- Think of Synonyms & Antonyms: If a direct synonym doesn't come to mind, consider antonyms (words meaning the opposite) and then think of their opposites. This can sometimes lead you to the correct answer.
- Broaden Your Semantic Field: "Soften" can apply to textures, sounds, emotions, light, or actions. Think about which domain the clue might be operating in.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "soften" mean in crossword clues?
“Soften” in crossword clues often refers to reducing intensity, making something less harsh, or becoming milder. It can also imply a change in texture or demeanor, depending on the context of the clue.
How can I find the correct "soften" answer in a crossword?
Look at the number of letters required for the answer. Consider common synonyms like ease, abate, mellow, temper, mitigate, or alleviate. Always check intersecting letters from other clues to help narrow down possibilities and confirm your answer.
Are there different types of "soften" clues?
Yes, "soften" can be used literally (e.g., soften dough), figuratively (e.g., soften a blow or a stance), or emotionally (e.g., soften one's heart). The specific phrasing of the clue and its context are crucial for determining the intended meaning and finding the most appropriate synonym.