Responding to someone in a calm, humble manner will help assuage their anger or avoid any further trouble. The expression originated in the Bible, in Proverbs 15:1: "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger." I know you're really upset over these accusations, but losing your temper with them now will only ensure you lose your job. Remember—a soft answer turneth away wrath. With two parents who were constantly at each others' throats—and all too quick to snap at us as well—I grew up with the knowledge that a soft answer turneth away wrath.