Coming down hard on something is a phrase often used to mean severe criticism or punishment. Some possible antonyms for this phrase could include lightening up, going easy, forgiving, or being lenient. Instead of harshly judging or punishing, one could choose to be more relaxed, understanding, or forgiving towards others. This approach may be helpful in situations where misunderstandings or mistakes have occurred, and where a more gentle response could help to foster better relationships and more positive outcomes. Ultimately, the choice between coming down hard on someone versus taking a more relaxed approach may depend on the situation at hand, the severity of the issue, and the desired outcome.