Differences between bulk up and soften up

Bulk up means to increase muscle mass or to add weight, while soften up means to make something less hard or rigid.

Meanings and Definitions: bulk up vs soften up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Bulk up

1Gain weight, develop bigger muscles.
He's BULKED UP a lot since he got those steroids.

Soften up

1Weaken.
defenses; I think we can move in tomorrow.
2Do things to please someone in the hope that they will do what you want.
I paid for everything to SOFTEN them UP before they made the decision.

Usage Examples: bulk up, soften up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

bulk up

Example

He wants to bulk up before the bodybuilding competition.

Example

She bulks up by lifting weights and eating a high-protein diet.

soften up

Example

The negotiator tried to soften up the opposing party before the meeting.

Example

She softens up the butter before baking cookies.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Bulk up

build muscle

To increase muscle mass through exercise and diet.

Example

He started to build muscle by lifting weights and eating a protein-rich diet.

beef up

To add weight or muscle mass to one's body.

Example

He decided to beef up for the upcoming bodybuilding competition.

pump iron

To lift weights as part of a fitness routine.

Example

She goes to the gym every day to pump iron and stay in shape.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Soften up

let one's guard down

To become less defensive or cautious and more open to others.

Example

After a few drinks, he started to let his guard down and share personal stories with his friends.

melt someone's heart

To make someone feel emotional or sympathetic.

Example

The puppy's cute face and wagging tail melted her heart and she decided to adopt him.

ease up

To become less strict or severe, or to relax one's attitude or behavior.

Example

After the deadline passed, the boss decided to ease up and allow more time for the project to be completed.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “bulk”

bulk out

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in bulk up vs soften up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: bulk up or soften up?

In everyday conversation, bulk up is more common than soften up. This is because people often talk about fitness and exercise, where bulk up is a common term. On the other hand, soften up is used less frequently in daily conversations.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of bulk up and soften up

Bulk up and soften up are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, soften up can also be used in formal contexts when referring to making something less harsh or severe.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of bulk up and soften up

The tone of bulk up and soften up can differ based on context. Bulk up often carries a positive and motivated tone when related to fitness or bodybuilding, while soften up typically has a gentle and caring tone, especially when referring to emotions or relationships.

bulk up & soften up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Bulk up

Synonyms

gain weight
develop muscles
build muscle
increase muscle mass
grow bigger
get stronger

Antonyms

lose weight
slim down
shed pounds
decrease muscle mass
get smaller
get weaker

Soften up

Synonyms

Antonyms