Synonym Chooser

How does the noun clemency differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of clemency are charity, grace, leniency, and mercy. While all these words mean "a disposition to show kindness or compassion," clemency implies a mild or merciful disposition in one having the power or duty of punishing.

the judge refused to show clemency

When would charity be a good substitute for clemency?

While the synonyms charity and clemency are close in meaning, charity stresses benevolence and goodwill shown in broad understanding and tolerance of others.

show a little charity for the less fortunate

In what contexts can grace take the place of clemency?

The synonyms grace and clemency are sometimes interchangeable, but grace implies a benign attitude and a willingness to grant favors or make concessions.

by the grace of God

When is it sensible to use leniency instead of clemency?

Although the words leniency and clemency have much in common, leniency implies lack of severity in punishing.

criticized the courts for excessive leniency

When is mercy a more appropriate choice than clemency?

While in some cases nearly identical to clemency, mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it.

threw himself on the mercy of the court

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of clemency Governor Gavin Newsom said the brothers are scheduled to appear before a parole board in June, which will determine whether they should be considered for clemency. Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Apr. 2025 Illinois still has other pathways for people in prison to seek early release, including clemency from the governor and post-conviction claims alleging a prisoner’s constitutional rights were violated during trial. Jeremy Gorner, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2025 Zoom in: Watson learned that he was granted clemency while on a flight on his way to serve his nearly 10-year prison sentence, according to his spokesperson, Juda Engelmayer. Sara Fischer, Axios, 29 Mar. 2025 Biden Pardons: In an unorthodox move, Ed Martin, the interim U.S. attorney in Washington, is questioning former President Biden’s family and former White House officials about clemency. Zachary Small, New York Times, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for clemency

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Cite this Entry

“Clemency.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/clemency. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

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