it was softened

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was softened" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a process where something has become less harsh or intense, often in relation to texture, sound, or emotions. Example: "After being left out in the sun, the butter was softened and spread easily on the bread."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It is entirely based on the truth - if anything, it was softened a bit in order not to give the audience too hard a time.

The Guardian - Film

His daughter inherited his imperious inability to keep his opinions to himself, but in her case it was softened by her feminine humour.

The Guardian - Film

Of the e-mail I got which was from colleagues, about two-thirds had this knee-jerk "how could you do this?" and then I explained what we actually did, and then it was softened.

The New York Times - Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

By the end of September, with Rick Perry's collapse already on full display, the organization revealed that it was "softening" in its stance toward Romney.

Huffington Post

He managed the 1977 election campaign for the right-wing Likud's Menachem Begin, and became the first Likud defence minister.Yet his strategic stance was as pragmatic as his politics; and it was softening.

The Economist

In that context, the last five years starts to feel like it was softening the ground for a mainstream populace to accept new inputs.

TechCrunch

It was softening up support for the work of true public health scientists so that politicians could stick it to the American people and line the pockets of their influential friends.

Huffington Post

But after becoming famous for its "Don't ask permission, ask forgiveness" stance on entering new markets, Uber won this victory in part because it's softened its stance against regulators and is starting to work within the regulatory system.

TechCrunch

It is softened with a cotton pad; a mink bolster supports her neck.

The New York Times

To see what they're capable of, it's softened my view".

The New York Times

2. In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, heat the oil, and sauté the onion until it is softened.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was softened" to describe how an initial reaction, policy, or substance has been made less harsh or intense over time. For example: "Initially, the company's stance was firm, but after negotiations, "it was softened" to accommodate employee concerns."

Common error

Avoid using "it was softened" in highly formal or technical writing where more precise language may be required. Consider using terms like "mitigated" or "attenuated" for increased clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was softened" functions as a passive construction, indicating that 'it' (the subject) underwent a change, becoming less severe or intense. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Examples show its application in describing modifications to stances, truths, and even physical objects.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was softened" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that describes a reduction in intensity, harshness, or rigidity. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage across various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to convey moderation and change, making it a versatile addition to one's writing toolkit. Remember to use it when describing modifications to stances, policies, or objects, and consider alternatives like "it was made gentler" or "it was eased" depending on the nuance you aim to achieve.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was made gentler

Focuses on reducing harshness, implying a deliberate act to make something milder.

it was eased

Suggests a reduction in tension or pressure, making something more manageable.

it was tempered

Implies a moderation of something strong or intense, often used in the context of emotions or policies.

it was mitigated

Emphasizes the reduction of negative effects or consequences.

it was lessened

A general term indicating a decrease in amount, intensity, or degree.

it was subdued

Suggests a quieting or calming effect, reducing something's force or prominence.

it was blunted

Focuses on reducing the sharpness or impact of something.

it was mellowed

Indicates a softening or smoothing of something, often associated with age or experience.

it was attenuated

Suggests a weakening or thinning of something, often in a technical or scientific context.

it was weakened

Highlights a reduction in strength or power.

FAQs

How can I use "it was softened" in a sentence?

You can use "it was softened" to indicate that something has become less harsh, intense, or rigid. For example: "The blow of the criticism "it was softened" by her supportive colleagues."

What are some alternatives to "it was softened"?

Some alternatives include "it was eased", "it was made gentler", or "it was tempered", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "it was softened" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it was softened" is grammatically correct. It uses the passive voice of the verb "soften" in the past tense.

What is the difference between "it was softened" and "it softened"?

"It was softened" implies an external force or action caused something to become less harsh, while "it softened" implies a change occurring internally or naturally. For example, "The company's policy was softened by public pressure" versus "The butter softened in the warm room."