This may be a little redundant but does any one know the different connotations of soft in japanese compared to soft in english??? Any metaphors would be of great help.

I guess you are referring to the Japanese character "ju".
This word can mean several things. The most common reading is probably yawa(rakai), i.e. soft or tender.

Imho, I feel the character "ju" as it connotes to martial arts stands for pliancy, suppleness and/or flexibility. The common analogy used is the willow or bamboo tree which bends when snowladen yet springs back tall without breaking, while a big strong oak tree may break under the same circumstances.

I don't know if this is the sort of thing you're looking for, but I thought I'd share my thoughts.

And Kimpatsu, please correct me if I am wrong. :)

KG

That sounds about right. Yawarakai is also used in reference to the suppleness of one's muscles. Additionally, I've heard judo people use it a lot when referring to how well their technique flows

Should've noticed (especially after kempo guy's post). The character for yawarakai is the same for 'ju' in judo