Yielding (12)
'yielding' is the definition.
('cede' can be a synonym of 'yield')
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for ceding that I've seen before include "Handing over or giving up" , "'Relinquishing, giving over (6)'" , "Giving up (power)" , "Yielding or surrendering" , "Giving way" .)
(Other definitions for pliant that I've seen before include "Adaptable" , "Flexible, easy to bend" , "Bendable" , "easily controlled" , "Not firm" .)
'yielding' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for soft that I've seen before include "(Of drink) not alcoholic" , "Velvety" , "Giving little resistance" , "Gentle - malleable" , "Yielding, easily cut" .)
'yielding' is the definition.
(surrendering is a kind of yielding)
This is all the clue.
(Another definition for surrendering that I've seen is " Giving up".)