clemency

To show ‘clemency’ is to be merciful, typically by forgiving somebody for a wrong they have done or by moderating the severity of the punishment given. The nature of the term means that it is generally used in the context of compassion shown by a figure in a position of authority when administering justice.

1. The judge agreed to grant the defendant clemency after evidence emerged that she was acting in self-defence.

2. I accepted that I had infringed company policy, but I appealed for clemency on the grounds that it was my first offence.

3. The prisoner was denied clemency. His execution will take place as planned tomorrow morning.