Mollify
v.calm, kindformal
What it means
To reduce someone's anger, anxiety, or dissatisfaction.
Reach for it when describing a conciliatory action that addresses emotion without claiming the underlying issue is resolved
A direct apology helped mollify residents who had received no warning.
Choose between these
7- everyday
agitation decreases in neutral language
not when Calm describes the result but not the conciliatory action.
- warm
credible information reduces fear or uncertainty
not when Reassure fits anxiety and doubt, not justified anger.
- warm
gentle care reduces emotional distress
not when Soothe can ease sadness or pain without addressing anger or complaint.
- professional
appease
a concession satisfies an upset person enough to reduce conflict
not when Appease can imply giving in for peace without correcting the cause.
- professional
active conflict is brought under control
not when Pacify can be coercive and is inappropriate for someone seeking to be heard.
- formal
placate
someone's anger is quieted by words or concessions
not when Placate can sound manipulative and temporary.
- literary
the intensity of an unpleasant feeling is reduced
not when Assuage is elevated and often pairs with guilt, fear, or pain rather than an angry person.
Said against
4- inflame
- provoke
- agitate
- enrage
It naturally appears in
3- mollify critics
Publishing the full evidence did more to mollify critics than another promise.
- attempt to mollify
The manager attempted to mollify customers with refunds and a clear repair date.
- mollify concerns
One independent inspection may mollify concerns about the repaired roof.