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3. take the teeth out of

take the teeth out of

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take the teeth out of

To make a dangerous or hostile thing harmless or benign. The first draft of your e-mail was really harsh, but don't worry—I've taken the teeth out of it so you don't get fired. My dog used to act wild and mean all the time, but obedience training has really taken the teeth out of him.

See also: of, out, take, teeth