it softens

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it softens" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a process or effect that makes something less harsh or more gentle, often in relation to materials, emotions, or flavors. Example: "As the heat increases, it softens the butter, making it easier to mix into the batter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

As the fruit cooks, it softens, releasing its juices.

Los Angeles Times

It softens.

The New York Times

It softens the message".

The New York Times - Magazine

It softens up public sentiment.

The Guardian - Opinion

It softens a difficult process".

The New York Times

Add onion, and sauté until it softens.

The New York Times - Food

Saute onion until it softens and colors.

The New York Times - Food

It softens, but it's always there".

The New York Times

Even when it softens, it doesn't sink into quivering mush.

The New York Times

Cook, stirring, until it softens, about five minutes.

The New York Times

I think it softens the blow a bit.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it softens" to describe a process that reduces harshness or intensity, whether physical, emotional, or sensory. Consider the specific nuance you want to convey when choosing this phrase over alternatives.

Common error

Avoid using "it softens" in overly abstract or vague contexts where a more specific verb would provide greater clarity. Ensure the subject 'it' is clearly defined and the softening effect is tangible or easily understood.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it softens" primarily functions as a verb phrase where "it" serves as a pronoun referring to a subject and "softens" is a verb describing an action that reduces harshness or intensity. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

18%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it softens" is a grammatically sound and versatile construction used to describe a reduction in harshness, intensity, or rigidity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for diverse contexts, from physical descriptions (like cooking) to abstract concepts (like emotions or messages). While generally neutral in register, its effectiveness hinges on clear context and specific verb choices to avoid vagueness. Remember to consider semantically related alternatives like "it eases" or "it mellows" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it eases

Implies making something less difficult or tense, like softening a mood.

it soothes

Focuses on providing comfort or relief, similar to softening discomfort.

it mellows

Focuses on a smoother, gentler effect, like softening flavors or emotions.

it alleviates

Focuses on reducing intensity or severity, similar to softening an impact.

it relaxes

Implies reducing tension or rigidity, as in softening muscles or restrictions.

it mitigates

Implies reducing the harmfulness or impact of something, softening the consequences.

it diminishes

Indicates a reduction in strength or effect, as in softening a blow.

it tempers

Suggests moderating or toning down something, similar to softening an edge.

it subdues

Suggests bringing under control or reducing intensity, like softening a color or sound.

it weakens

Indicates a reduction in power or intensity, as in softening resistance.

FAQs

How can I use "it softens" in a sentence?

You can use "it softens" to describe how something becomes less harsh or intense. For example, "As the fruit cooks, "it softens", releasing its juices."

What are some alternatives to "it softens"?

Alternatives include phrases like "it eases", "it alleviates", or "it mellows", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "it softens" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it softens" is grammatically correct. "It" is a singular pronoun, and "softens" is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb "to soften".

How does the context affect the meaning of "it softens"?

The context determines what kind of softening is occurring. It could refer to a physical change (like food becoming softer), an emotional shift (like "it eases tension"), or a rhetorical effect (like "it softens the message").