sweeten

This term describes a physical transformation of flavor, shifting a taste profile from bitter, sour, or neutral toward a sugary profile. It is a direct action involving the addition of a substance to change the chemical perception of a dish. In social or political contexts, the word describes the act of making a harsh demand or an unpleasant situation more acceptable. Adding a bonus to a job offer or a compliment before a critique serves to soften the blow, making the overall proposition more palatable to the recipient.