lightening up
Becoming less serious
Lightening up means becoming less serious, tense, or strict.
Someone who lightens up relaxes their mood or attitude: Lighten up, it's just a joke.
The phrase often appears as an imperative, suggesting the target is being too uptight or taking something too seriously.
It can also mean easing pressure or reducing severity: The boss has been lightening up on the dress code lately.
- cheerJoyfulness or encouragement
- brighteningIncreasing in light
- good vibesPositive emotional atmosphere
- alleviationReduction of intensity
- playfulnessLighthearted, frisky spirit
mirth · cracking jokes · relaxing · taking it easy · relief · comic relief · joviality · banter · having a laugh · illuminate · ease · silliness · letting loose · decompress · laughter · levity · liven · jesting
lightening upgetting serious
Transitioning to commitment
sobering up · darkening · tightening up · stiffening · frowning
lightening upstewing
Cooking low and slow
wallowing · ruminating · obsessing · spiraling · catastrophizing
lightening updarkening
Growing less bright
sadden · souring · brooding · stiffening up
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