Antonyms for the phrase "pile it on" could include "reduce", "lessen", "decrease", or "minimize". These words denote the opposite action, wherein the amount or intensity of something is lowered or made smaller, rather than adding more to it. For example, instead of piling more work onto an already overloaded employee, a manager could try to reduce their workload or delegate some tasks to others. Similarly, instead of piling on more seasoning to a dish, a cook could try to lessen the amount to achieve a more balanced flavor. Antonyms for "pile it on" can be handy in situations where too much of something is overwhelming or counterproductive.