Also means
mildly, tenderly
Usage Note
Sanft describes a gentle, soft touch, voice, or manner — without harshness or force. Sanft klopfen — to knock gently; sanft sprechen — to speak softly. It is used across many registers and is entirely neutral, describing both physical gentleness and soft tone or approach.
Examples
"Sie strich ihm sanft über die Haare."
Natural Translation
She gently stroked his hair.
Literal Translation
She stroked him gently over the hair.
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