expression, godan verb (-ku)
break the brunt; blunt the edge; take the sting out
Idiomatic expression meaning to weaken the force or impact of an attack, argument, or strong emotion. Often used figuratively.
彼の冷静な返答が相手の鋭を挫いた。
His calm reply took the sting out of the opponent's attack.
ユーモアを交えて話す
By speaking with humor, you can blunt the edge of criticism.