is softened

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is softened" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a process where something becomes less harsh or intense, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The criticism is softened by the kind words that follow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Lighting is softened.

The Guardian

The farce is softened by sentiment.

The New York Times - Arts

This harsh reality is softened by human relationships.

The New York Times

These days, the wood is softened with steam.

The Economist

Cook on a low heat until the onion is softened.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The work's critical bite is softened by unmistakable tones of amusement and relish.

The New Yorker

Cook gently until the onion is softened, but not coloured (about five minutes).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"We know when sanctions are lifted or the policy is softened we face more repression".

The Guardian

Continue to fry until garlic is softened but not colored, about 3 minutes.

The New York Times - Food

The Versace muse is softened, but her glamour won't be dampened completely.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The effect is watery -- the crisp piqué is softened by the irregular stains of pale blue.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when using "is softened"; ensure it aligns with the intended meaning of reducing harshness or intensity without implying weakness.

Common error

Avoid using "is softened" excessively in highly formal or scientific writing where more precise or technical language might be more appropriate. Alternatives like "is mitigated" or "is alleviated" may provide a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is softened" functions as a passive verb construction, indicating that the subject is undergoing a process of becoming less harsh, intense, or rigid. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

24%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is softened" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed passive construction used to describe a reduction in harshness, intensity, or rigidity. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. While prevalent in news, media, and general contexts, careful consideration should be given to its appropriateness in highly formal or scientific writing, where more precise language might be preferred. Alternative phrases like "is eased" or "is mitigated" can offer nuanced variations in meaning, depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is lessened

A straightforward way of saying something is reduced in degree or intensity.

is made gentler

Focuses on making something less harsh in effect or impact.

is weakened

Focuses on a reduction in power, force, or effectiveness.

is tempered

Implies moderation or balancing of something that is initially strong or extreme.

is eased

Implies that something difficult or painful is made more comfortable or manageable.

is toned down

Indicates a reduction in intensity, often in terms of color, sound, or behavior.

is alleviated

Suggests a reduction in pain, stress, or severity.

is mitigated

Emphasizes the lessening of the negative effects or consequences of something.

is made more flexible

Highlights an increase in adaptability or malleability.

is diluted

Suggests a reduction in strength or concentration, often metaphorically.

FAQs

How can I use "is softened" in a sentence?

You can use "is softened" to describe a reduction in harshness or intensity. For example, "The criticism "is softened" by the kind words that follow" or "The impact of the policy "is softened" by the new regulations".

What are some alternatives to "is softened"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "is eased", "is mitigated", or "is lessened". Each alternative offers a slightly different nuance in meaning.

Is "is softened" a formal or informal phrase?

"Is softened" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but its appropriateness depends on the specific situation. In highly formal or scientific writing, more precise language may be preferable. However, in general news, lifestyle writing, and everyday conversation, it "is softened" perfectly acceptable.

Which is correct, "is softened" or "was softened"?

Both "is softened" and "was softened" are grammatically correct, but they differ in tense. "Is softened" describes a present or ongoing state, while "was softened" describes a past state. For example, "The butter is softened now" versus "The butter was softened earlier".