1
2
3

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun mercy differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of mercy are charity, clemency, grace, and leniency. While all these words mean "a disposition to show kindness or compassion," mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it.

threw himself on the mercy of the court

When would charity be a good substitute for mercy?

While the synonyms charity and mercy 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

When can clemency be used instead of mercy?

The words clemency and mercy are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, clemency implies a mild or merciful disposition in one having the power or duty of punishing.

the judge refused to show clemency

When is it sensible to use grace instead of mercy?

The synonyms grace and mercy 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 leniency a more appropriate choice than mercy?

The words leniency and mercy can be used in similar contexts, but leniency implies lack of severity in punishing.

criticized the courts for excessive leniency

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 mercy In commending the souls of the deceased to the loving mercy of Almighty God, the Holy Father prays for the consolation of those who grieve and for the recovery of the injured. Amira El-Fekki‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 July 2025 The Wall Street analyst sees small mercies for exhibitors in the major studios committing to theatrical releases after uncertainty brought on by pandemic-era theater closures and a shift of Hollywood titles to emerging streaming platforms. Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 11 July 2025 Just like office workers who are experiencing mass layoffs and are at the mercy of recessions, rate hikes, and demand, so too are tradies. Preston Fore, Fortune, 2 July 2025 Each day will open the door to receive God's grace and mercy anew. Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for mercy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mercy
Noun
  • Cole has known Hussein for about six years and has seen how Hussein's kindness, character and compassion has inspired countless people at the school.
    Lily Kepner, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025
  • His 90 years are saturated with kindness, love and compassion… driven by a fearless, diamond-like wisdom that engages a deeply divided world.
    Nancy Tartaglione, Deadline, 30 July 2025
Noun
  • Colbert expressed sympathy for Harris having to endure it.
    Washington Examiner Staff, The Washington Examiner, 1 Aug. 2025
  • After the shooting in Manhattan, Mamdani expressed sympathy to the victims on social media.
    Nicole Russell, USA Today, 31 July 2025
Noun
  • Displaying empathy and compassion beyond their age level.
    Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Aug. 2025
  • That pause can create space for clarity, empathy, and better decisions.
    Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • This is where strength meets grace and innovation aligns with the creative pursuit of our aspirations.
    Essence, Essence, 2 Aug. 2025
  • Embrace the clarity and freedom that come with breaking through these limiting beliefs. March 2025 Five of Swords: Conflicts may arise this month, Scorpio, testing your ability to navigate power dynamics with grace and a level of unbotheredness that most don’t expect from you.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Among those lessons is that working with young people — and earning their trust — requires patience and compassion.
    Killian Baarlaer, The Courier-Journal, 25 July 2025
  • This doesn't mean our creativity or compassion will be erased.
    Srinivasa Rao Bittla, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025
Noun
  • This comes after Hankison's defense team filed a sentencing memorandum urging the judge for leniency, citing various factors.
    Tesfaye Negussie, ABC News, 17 July 2025
  • Rollins is viewed in MAGA circles as someone to watch out for on amnesty and immigration leniency.
    W. James Antle III, The Washington Examiner, 12 July 2025
Noun
  • Every region of the country, including Michigan has a higher risk of warmer-than-usual temperatures, the weather service says.
    Sarah Moore, Freep.com, 31 July 2025
  • Franchise developers Jordan Van Royen and Derek Harper aim to standardize the dog grooming experience with consistent pricing and services.
    Molly Gregory, The Courier-Journal, 31 July 2025
Noun
  • Warm, welcoming, and full of heart, Gracianna feels like visiting an old friend.
    Noel Burgess, Forbes.com, 28 July 2025
  • While Luna spent much of the summer playing on the left wing, his heart is with the playmaking 10 role.
    Jeff Rueter, New York Times, 28 July 2025

Cite this Entry

“Mercy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mercy. Accessed 7 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on mercy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!