It also means expecting the unexpected, like, perhaps, a terrifying guttural roar directly outside your tent, a lion so close you can hear his soft feet padding the dust just beyond the canvas.

BBC: The Serengeti in the off-season

As for the British ambassador, the soft-spoken Sir Stephen Wall, he is close to John Major--but for the past two years this has often seemed something of a disadvantage.

ECONOMIST: The power-house

So, while there has yet to be any concrete evidence that the economy is actually losing steam right now, with lots of people talking about another soft patch, we will want to pay particularly close attention to the upcoming data such as the ISM reports, the jobs numbers, and the commentary from corporations when they report earnings.

FORBES: Some Investors Concerned We Could Be Entering Another Soft Patch

Kenya Police spokesman Eric Kiraithe said it was likely resorts close to the border were seen as "soft targets" -- despite the presence of police and security guards -- an attractive proposition given the clampdown on 'traditional' pirate attacks.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Independent MLA Jim Allister wanted to know if this announcement was designed to provide a "soft landing" for what was intended to be a permanent decision to close the City accident and emergency department.

BBC: Health minister statement

At a food-court table close by, in early May, Pacific Palisades resident Michelle Lande had soft pretzels she had bought for her three children to eat when they emerged from the play area.

WSJ: If Kids Can Play, Will Mom Shop?

With a grassy hollow guarding the left front edge and sand at the right front edge, to get close you must wriggle in between the traps or fly over and pray for a soft landing.

BBC: John Daly becomes another victim of the Road Hole