A2adjective1K

Soft

UK /["/sɒft/"]/US /["/sɔːft/"]/

Definition

changing shape easily when pressed; not stiff or hard

In simple words: Not hard; gentle to touch.

Examples

  • The pillow is very soft and comfortable to sleep on.
  • She used a soft brush to paint the delicate details.
  • The fabric is soft, making it perfect for baby clothes.
  • His voice was soft, almost a whisper.
  • The gentle rain created a soft sound on the roof.

Usage notes

Use 'soft' to describe textures, sounds, or feelings. Not appropriate for describing hard objects or strong feelings.

Grammar pattern

soft + noun

Memory hint

Imagine a soft pillow inviting you to rest your head on it.

Collocations

  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • be
  • feel
  • look
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very

Synonyms

  • light
  • quiet
  • lenient

Antonyms

  • hard
  • firm
  • rigid

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'smooth' — 'soft' refers to texture, 'smooth' to surface feel.
  • 'Soft' used incorrectly for hard objects, e.g., 'soft rock'.
  • Misused in expressions — avoid saying 'softly' when referring to loud actions.