Soothe: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is typically used to describe the act of calming someone who is upset or to alleviate pain or discomfort. Common in situations involving physical or emotional distress.

• The mother soothed her crying baby.
• The lotion helped to soothe his sunburn.

Comfort is often used when providing emotional support or reassurance to someone in distress, grief, or sadness. It implies a deeper emotional connection and support.

• She comforted her friend after the loss of a pet.
• A cozy blanket can comfort you on a cold night.

Relieve is used to describe the act of removing or reducing pain, stress, or discomfort. It often refers to physical relief but can also apply to emotional or mental states.

• The painkillers relieved his back pain.
• She felt relieved after finishing her exams.

Pacify generally implies calming someone who is angry, agitated, or upset. It is often used in contexts where there was a conflict or strong emotional reaction. It can have a slightly negative connotation if it suggests suppressing someone's feelings rather than addressing them.

• The parents tried to pacify the screaming child.
• He gave her flowers to pacify her after the argument.

This word is used to describe the act of making a situation less difficult or severe. It can refer to reducing pain, stress, or hardship. It is more general and can apply to a wide range of situations.

• He took medicine to ease his headache.
• Her words eased my fears.

This word is often used when trying to calm someone who is upset, in pain, or stressed.

• She gently soothed the crying baby.
• His words helped to soothe her anxiety.

Use this word when giving comfort to someone who is grieving or saddened by a loss. Typically involves emotional support.

• She tried to console her friend after the breakup.
• He consoled her with kind words after the funeral.

This word is suitable when you need to make someone feel less worried or fearful, often by confirming that things will be okay.

• She reassured him that he was going to be fine before the surgery.
• He reassured his daughter that monsters are not real.

Use this word when offering assistance, whether emotional, financial, or practical, in a broader sense.

• Her family supported her through the tough times.
• He provided financial support for his friend's new business venture.

This word fits when you want to give someone confidence or motivate them to do something or to keep going.

• Her teacher encouraged her to pursue a career in writing.
• He encouraged his team to keep striving for success despite the setbacks.