placate
Verb
Hard difficulty
What does “placate” mean?
verb.to make (someone) less angry or hostile.
SAT Usage
this term often appears in contexts involving conflict resolution, emotional responses, or interpersonal dynamics. It emphasizes the active effort to soothe or calm someone’s anger, suggesting a more strategic or compassionate approach than simply ignoring the issue, which distinguishes it from words like "appease" that may imply compliance or concession.
Common Confusions
Placate implies actively soothing someone's anger, while appease usually suggests yielding or compromising to avoid conflict.
Example Sentences
-
She offered a sincere apology to placate the angry customer.
-
In an attempt to placate the angry crowd, the mayor promised to address their concerns at a town hall meeting, assuring them that their voices would be heard.