soft landing
The term "soft landing" originates from aviation, symbolizing a smooth touchdown, and is used metaphorically in various fields to describe gentle transitions.
Definition
C1Aeronautics
(technical)A controlled and gentle descent of an aircraft or spacecraft onto a surface, minimizing impact and ensuring safety.
Example
- The mission was successful with a soft landing on the lunar surface.
- The pilot executed a soft landing despite the turbulent weather.
C1Economics
(technical)A situation where an economy slows down just enough to avoid a recession, achieving a stable and sustainable growth rate.
Example
- The central bank aims for a soft landing to curb inflation without triggering a recession.
- Economists are hopeful for a soft landing as the market adjusts to new policies.
B2General
(metaphorical)A smooth and gradual transition or adjustment to a new situation or condition, minimizing disruption or difficulty.
Example
- The company's restructuring plan aims for a soft landing for all employees.
- She managed a soft landing into her new role, thanks to comprehensive training.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "soft landing":
hard landingsoft killhappy landingsthree-point landingsoft touchhard launchstick the landingblack landingland onsoft pointsoft handsoftly softlysoft launch