emollient
Adjective
Hard difficulty
What does “emollient” mean?
adjective.having the quality of softening or soothing the skin; attempting to avoid confrontation or anger.
SAT Usage
this term often appears in contexts related to personal interactions, psychology, or health. It implies a gentle or pacifying approach, emphasizing an intention to soothe rather than confront, contrasting with more aggressive or abrasive terms like "belligerent" or "hostile."
Common Confusions
Emollient implies a gentle or soothing quality, while abrasive usually suggests a harsh or rough demeanor that can cause discomfort or irritation.
Do not choose emollient if the context emphasizes harshness or aggression rather than having the quality of softening or soothing the skin or attempting to avoid confrontation or anger.
Example Sentences
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She used an emollient cream to soothe her dry skin.