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 President Trump pardoned Kerik during a 2020 clemency blitz. CBS News, 30 May 2025 Presidents have the power to grant clemencies and decide the extent of the pardon or commutation without having to provide an explanation for doing so. Caroline Blair, People.com, 29 May 2025 Neera Tanden – As Biden’s former domestic policy adviser, Tanden was involved in shaping executive actions and clemency policy. Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 29 May 2025 The Menendez brothers are already scheduled for a board hearing on June 13, related to a separate petition for clemency. Rachel Treisman, NPR, 14 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for clemency
Recent Examples of Synonyms for clemency
Noun
  • This, in effect, frames even the movie’s unrelated, apolitical happenings as being at the mercy of this dangerous future, backed by Western powers.
    Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 24 May 2025
  • Allowing the Chinese government to circumvent free trade guardrails will ultimately put the U.S. at the mercy of an international supply chain.
    Daniel R. Depetris, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 May 2025
Noun
  • Defense attorneys have asked the court for leniency, citing the defendants’ age and health.
    Thomas Adamson, Chicago Tribune, 23 May 2025
  • Mary Kay Letourneau is sentenced to prison At her sentencing, Letourneau pleaded for leniency.
    Nicole Pomarico, People.com, 20 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Clemency.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/clemency. Accessed 3 Jun. 2025.

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