lighten the situation

[vectra]

Hello and Merry Christmas,

Is it possible to use the word 'lighten' in this situation?

'Every time when my parents quarrel with each other, I'm at my wits' end, because I don't know what I need and can do to lighten the situation.'

Thank you in advance.

[Rover_KE]

Yes, you can.

Also: defuse, alleviate, calm, relieve.

Rover

[Odessa Dawn]

'Every time when my parents quarrel with each other, I'm at my wits' end, because I don't know what I need and can do to lighten the situation.'

Can I drop when over here? Is it obligatory?


Thank you,

[BobK]

Yup - in fact it's better. If you must use a subordinating conjunction, use 'that'. We already know you're talking about time - so saying 'when' is pleonastic (look it up!)

b