cushion/soften the blow

idiom

: to make one's disappointment less painful
She was disappointed not to get the job, but the promise of another job cushioned/softened the blow.

Examples of cushion/soften the blow in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In addition, CyberScoop reports that the CVE program has built up its resiliency over the years, which could soften the blow from any funding cuts. Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 15 Apr. 2025 In an attempt to potentially soften the blow to consumers, Sony has also trimmed the price of its detachable disc drive accessory in all affected markets. Esat Dedezade, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025 While Amazon is trying to soften the blow by stockpiling inventory and renegotiating with suppliers, Jassy acknowledged inflationary pressures are likely to ripple through. Catherine Baab, Quartz, 11 Apr. 2025 The Federal Reserve could cushion the blow of tariffs on the economy by cutting interest rates, which can encourage companies and households to borrow and spend. Elaine Kurtenbach, Los Angeles Times, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cushion/soften the blow

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cushion/soften the blow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cushion%2Fsoften%20the%20blow. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!