An expression to describe an absolute pussy who makes the most cowardly person look like a hero.

Therefore, one who is 'as soft as butter' is so feeble that they are likened to butter.

This is a term used predominantly in the Australian Football League (AFL) to describe a 50 50 ball that is contested fiercely. Getting a 'hard ball get' is generally associated with tougher, better players who are not afraid to get involved in the game.