新东方-柯林斯雅思备考词典

soften

英  [ˈsɒfən]
    
美  [ˈsɔːf-]

[VERB]

    VERB. 动词
  • softens , softening , softened

    1[I 不及物动词] 使变软 , 变软

    If you soften something or if it softens, it becomes less hard, stiff, or firm.

    双语例句

    例:

    Soften the butter mixture in a small saucepan.

    在小平底锅里将黄油混合物化软。

    2[T 及物动词] 使减弱

    If one thing softens the damaging effect of another thing, it makes the effect less severe.

    双语例句

    例:

    There were also pledges to soften the impact of the subsidy cuts on the poorer regions.

    他们还承诺要减轻消减补贴给较贫困地区带来的影响。

    3[I 不及物动词] 使变温和 , 变温和

    If you soften your position, if your position softens, or if you soften, you become more sympathetic and less hostile or critical.

    双语例句

    例:

    The letter shows no sign that the Germans have softened their position.

    信里没有任何迹象表明德国人的态度已有所缓和。

    例:

    His party's policy has softened a lot in recent years.

    他所在的政党近些年的政策已经变得温和多了。

    4[I 不及物动词] 使温和 , 变温和

    If your voice or expression softens or if you soften it, it becomes much more gentle and friendly.

    双语例句

    例:

    All at once, Mick's serious expression softened into a grin.

    米克严肃的表情一下子变成了笑脸。

    5[T 及物动词] 使(光、颜色或声音)变柔和

    If you soften something such as light, a colour, or a sound, you make it less bright or harsh.

    双语例句

    例:

    We wanted to soften the light without destroying the overall effect of space.

    我们希望在不破坏整体空间效果的同时使灯光柔和些。

    6[T 及物动词] 使(皮肤)变得光滑柔软

    Something that softens your skin makes it very smooth and pleasant to touch.

    双语例句

    例:

    products designed to moisturize and soften the skin.

    使肌肤滋润柔滑的产品。