[take] the sting out of {sth}
1
to take away from the intensity of something unpleasant
The idiom "take the sting out of" likely comes from the idea of removing or lessening the pain associated with a bee or insect sting. By taking the sting out, you make the experience less painful or distressing. Over time, the phrase has been used metaphorically to describe reducing the impact or unpleasantness of various situations or experiences. People use this expression to mean alleviating or reducing the pain, discomfort, or negative impact of something.
- The manager offered extra time off to take the sting out of the mandatory overtime.
- Adding a bit of humor to a difficult conversation can take the sting out of the message.
- The financial assistance program aims to take the sting out of unexpected medical expenses.
- Applying a cold compress can take the sting out of a sunburn.