cushion the blow
Make it gentler
To cushion the blow is to lessen the impact of bad news or an unpleasant situation: She tried to cushion the blow by emphasizing what he'd done well before delivering the criticism.
The metaphor comes from padding that absorbs physical impact—something that softens the blow doesn't eliminate it but makes it easier to bear.
- paddingMaterial for cushioning
- shock absorberImpact-dampening suspension component
- prepareMake ready beforehand
- mitigateMake less severe
- comfortEase or soothing relief
soothe · alleviate · take the edge off · soften · empathize · console · reassure · protect · safeguard · buffer · safety net · break the news · sugar coat · gentle reminder · anticipate · support · pillow · calm
- Comfort Phrasescomfort food, comfort zone, creature comforts, home sweet home, safe and sound
cushion the blowmake matters worse
Intensify an existing problem
add insult to injury · rub salt in the wound · twist the knife · exacerbate · aggravate
cushion the blowdrop a bombshell
Announce startling information unexpectedly
blindside · not mince words · lay it on the line · tell it like it is · pull no punches
cushion, cushions, cushioned, cushioning, blow, blows, blown, blowing, blower