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
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.
—
Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 4 Apr. 2025
Build an emergency fund to cushion the blow when life throws the unexpected your way.
7.
—Brian Kelly, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
Jim also identified Costco as a standout retailer despite tariffs, saying its membership model helps cushion the blow from broader challenges in the sector.
—Paulina Likos, CNBC, 3 Apr. 2025
Hinch prioritizes honesty with his players but knows that does not soften the blow.
—Cody Stavenhagen, The Athletic, 25 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cushion/soften the blow
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.
Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 4 Apr. 2025
Build an emergency fund to cushion the blow when life throws the unexpected your way.
7.
—Brian Kelly, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
Jim also identified Costco as a standout retailer despite tariffs, saying its membership model helps cushion the blow from broader challenges in the sector.
—Paulina Likos, CNBC, 3 Apr. 2025
Hinch prioritizes honesty with his players but knows that does not soften the blow.
—Cody Stavenhagen, The Athletic, 25 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cushion/soften the blow
Cite this Entry
“Cushion/soften the blow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cushion%2Fsoften%20the%20blow. Accessed 8 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share