The phrase "put to death" can be quite harsh and unsettling, and there are times when a more appropriate, less violent term might be needed. Some synonyms for this phrase could include "execute," "administer capital punishment," or "carry out a death sentence." Other options might be "put to sleep" (commonly used when referring to euthanizing animals), "end a life," or simply "kill." Depending on the context and the sensitivity of the situation, it may be necessary to use a different phrase altogether, such as "pass away," "depart this life," or "shuffle off this mortal coil".