clemency

Definitions

Disposition to be merciful and especially to moderate the severity of punishment.

An act or instance of leniency or compassion.

Examples

The governor granted clemency to the prisoner after reviewing the new evidence.

The judge showed clemency by reducing the defendant's sentence due to his age.

In a rare act of clemency, the king pardoned the rebels who had fought against his rule.

Synonyms

mercy leniency compassion forgiveness pity forbearance indulgence

Antonyms

severity ruthlessness harshness cruelty sternness rigor vengeance