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Translation

smooth over

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Word: Smooth Over

Part of Speech: Verb (Phrasal Verb)

Definition: To "smooth over" means to try to make a problem or difficult situation seem less serious or to make it go away without dealing with it properly. It often involves ignoring the real issues or providing a temporary solution, rather than solving the problem completely.

Usage Instructions:
  • Use "smooth over" when talking about situations where someone tries to make things seem better or less serious than they are.
  • It is often used in contexts involving conflicts, misunderstandings, or disagreements.
Example:
  • After the argument between the two friends, Maria tried to smooth over the situation by buying them ice cream, instead of discussing the real issues that caused the fight.
Advanced Usage:
  • In a business context, a manager might smooth over employee concerns during a meeting by making light of the issues instead of addressing them directly. This can sometimes lead to bigger problems later on.
Word Variants:
  • Smooth (verb): To make something even or free of bumps.
  • Smoothness (noun): The quality of being smooth.
Different Meanings:
  • "Smooth" can also mean something that is free of roughness or bumps, like a smooth surface or a smooth texture.
Synonyms:
  • Mitigate
  • Alleviate
  • Settle
  • Patch up
  • Calm down
Idioms and Related Phrasal Verbs:
  • Patch up: To repair or fix a situation, often used similarly to "smooth over."
  • Brush aside: To ignore something or treat it as unimportant.
Notes:
  • "Smooth over" often has a slightly negative connotation because it implies that the person is avoiding the real issues instead of addressing them properly.
  • Be careful when using this phrase; ensure that it fits the context of avoiding a problem rather than genuinely resolving it.
Example in a Sentence:
  • The company tried to smooth over the controversy by issuing a public statement, but many employees felt their concerns were still not addressed.
Verb
  1. treat hurriedly or avoid dealing with properly

Synonyms

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