B1verb 5K

Pacify

UK //ˈpæsɪfaɪ// US //ˈpæsɪfaɪ// Pronunciation

Definition

To calm someone who is angry or upset.

Listen to definition

In simple words: To calm someone down or make them feel better.

Examples

• She tried to pacify the crying baby by singing a lullaby.
• The manager needed to pacify the angry customer with a refund.
• To pacify his nerves before the presentation, he took deep breaths.
• They used toys to pacify the children during the long wait.
• The government issued a statement to pacify public concerns about safety.

Usage notes

Used in contexts involving reducing anger or agitation. Often used in formal or serious situations, less common in everyday casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

pacify + object

Memory hint

Think of 'peace' - pacify brings peace to a troubled person.

Collocations

• pacify someone
• pacify a crowd
• pacify tension

Synonyms

• calm
• soothe
• alleviate
• appease
• comfort

Antonyms

• agitate
• anger
• disturb

Common mistakes

• Confusing with 'satisfy' – 'pacify' involves calming emotions, while 'satisfy' is about meeting needs.
• Using intransitively – needs a direct object, e.g., 'pacify someone' instead of just 'pacify.'