tread softly
The phrase "tread softly" can be used to advise caution in behavior or refer to certain plant species.
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Definition
B2General
(idiomatic, informal)To act with care and sensitivity to avoid causing harm or offense.
Example
- You should tread softly when discussing personal issues with her.
- In delicate negotiations, it's best to tread softly.
B1Movement
(general)To move quietly and carefully to avoid drawing attention.
Example
- He tread softly across the room to avoid waking the baby.
- Please tread softly; the floorboards are very creaky.
C1Botany
(technical)A common name for certain plants like spurge nettle or Carolina horsenettle.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "tread softly":
softly softlywalk on eggshellstiptoe aroundwatch one's stepgo easytread on someone's toeskid glovelay lowkeep quieton tiptoe