Soft-soaping

Soft-soaping refers to the act of using flattery, insincere compliments, and persuasive language to manipulate or influence someone, often with the aim of gaining their favor, agreement, or cooperation. It involves a calculated approach, where the speaker aims to create a positive and often exaggerated impression to achieve a desired outcome. This tactic bypasses direct or honest communication in favor of a smoother, more palatable presentation, sometimes masking ulterior motives or avoiding difficult truths. The term highlights the manipulative aspect of this communication style, suggesting a subtle, almost slippery, attempt to win someone over through appealing to their ego or desires. It's the art of buttering someone up, frequently to obtain something from them or get your way.

Soft-soaping meaning with examples

• The car salesman's soft-soaping was relentless. He complimented her on her "excellent taste" and the "beautiful family" he imagined she'd have in the new SUV, hoping to sway her opinion. His sugary words aimed to obscure the high interest rate on the vehicle, and he would have gotten away with it, if she hadnt remembered a review.
• He tried to use soft-soaping to convince his boss to give him a raise. He told her how much he admired her leadership skills, and praised the company's innovative spirit. By creating a false reality, he hopes to make his boss think that she is a good person and will give him a raise. Luckily he was wrong, and the boss saw straight through his antics.
• The politician engaged in soft-soaping before the election, telling constituents exactly what they wanted to hear, even if the promises lacked substance or were mutually exclusive. His rhetoric sought to attract votes rather than present a clear, honest picture of his policies. The crowd was easily swayed.
• She realized her friend was using soft-soaping tactics when she constantly complimented her on her appearance and success to get invited to exclusive parties. Each compliment had a clear intention; it was a calculated effort to become part of her friend's social circle. It was a shallow ploy based on the other's vulnerabilities.
• The marketing team relied heavily on soft-soaping in their advertisements, using emotionally charged language and flattering visuals to make consumers feel good about their products, even if the products themselves weren't superior. The advertising campaign appealed more to feelings than facts, which is why it was successful for so long.