clemency
KLEM-un-see
/ˈclemənsi/
Mercy; lenience; an act by an executive official to reduce a punishment.
Clemency is the broad power of a governor or president to show mercy, which can take the form of a pardon or commutation.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'clementia,' meaning 'mildness' or 'gentleness.' It originally referred to the mildness of the weather before being applied to human temperament.
Word relationships
- mercy: Mercy is a general term; clemency is the formal legal application of it.
- ruthlessness: The quality of lacking pity or compassion.
Commonly confused with
- commutation: Clemency is the mercy itself; commutation is the specific act of shortening the sentence.
Word family
- clement (adjective): (Of a person or their actions) merciful.
Collocations
- grant clemency
- appeal for clemency
- executive clemency
Example sentences
- "The prisoner appealed for clemency, citing his terminal illness and his record of good behavior." Legal appeal
- "In a rare act of clemency, the king spared the rebels from execution." Historical event
Memory hook
Clemency sounds like 'Clementine.' A clementine is sweet and soft, like mercy. Mercy from the top.
When not to use
Do not use for general kindness; it is specifically a legal or authoritative act of mercy.
Fun facts
- In the U.S., the President has the power to grant clemency for federal crimes, while Governors handle state crimes.
- Clemency can be granted even after a person has finished their sentence to restore their rights.
Related words
Explore more words
reprieve, lenient, amnesty, commute, extenuation, charitable
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