simple past tense and past participle of soften up

(idiomatic, often followed by for) To prepare or create favorable conditions (for something), especially with the intent of improving public acceptance of the forthcoming occurrence.

(figuratively) To reduce the negative impact of something.

To completely negate or undermine someone's argument or position on a topic. / To humble or humiliate; put someone in his place. / To ease or sooth someone's cough.

Alternative form of soften the ground