anodyne
Pronunciation
Noun
C1 Advanced
Quick answer
Something that soothes pain or calms distress, especially used to avoid controversy.
Synonyms and antonyms
Synonyms
soother
Usage notes
Very frequently used as an adjective meaning bland or unlikely to offend, as in "an anodyne statement."
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "The speech was carefully written as a political _____, designed to upset no one."
Answer: anodyne
In your own words, what does "anodyne" mean?
Something that soothes pain or calms distress, especially used to avoid controversy.
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