soft touch
Plural
soft touches
1
someone who can be easily taken advantage of
The origin of the phrase "soft touch" is not definitively known, but it likely emerged from the imagery of touch as a metaphor for vulnerability or susceptibility. The word "soft" in this context implies a lack of resistance or firmness, suggesting that the person is easily influenced or taken advantage of. The phrase has been in use for many years and has become a common expression in the English language. It effectively captures the idea of someone who is kind-hearted or easily persuaded, often to the point of being easily exploited or manipulated. While the precise origin remains unclear, the phrase has become a widely recognized idiom for describing someone's susceptibility or vulnerability in certain situations.
- Because he was known as a soft touch, his friends frequently borrowed money from him and rarely paid it back.
- The salesperson saw her as a soft touch and convinced her to buy several items she didn’t really need.
- His colleagues knew he was a soft touch, so they often left their difficult tasks for him to complete.
- With her kind personality, she sometimes ended up being a soft touch for people looking to bend the rules.
- Scammers often target those they perceive as a soft touch, knowing they are more likely to give in to pressure.