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Clemency Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clemency

[ˈklemənsi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

legal term

Clemency is the act of showing mercy or leniency towards someone who has committed a crime. It is often granted by a government or a ruling authority.

Synonyms

leniency, mercy, pardon.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clemency

Typically used in legal or formal settings to refer to the act of showing mercy, particularly from those in authority, like a judge or a president.

  • The governor granted clemency to the prisoner, reducing his sentence from life imprisonment to 20 years
mercy

Used in a wide range of situations, often emotional or compassionate, where someone shows kindness and forgiveness rather than harshness.

  • The soldier showed mercy by freeing the captured enemy instead of harming him
leniency

Often applied in situations where someone is being less strict or severe than expected, usually in disciplinary or legal contexts.

  • The teacher showed leniency when she allowed the student to submit his assignment a day late without penalty
pardon

Primarily used in official or legal contexts to describe the act of forgiving or excusing someone’s offense or crime, often formally by a head of state or other authority figure.

  • The president issued a pardon for the whistleblower, allowing him to return to his family without fear of prosecution

Examples of usage

  • The president granted clemency to the prisoners on death row.
  • The judge decided to show clemency towards the first-time offender.
Context #2 | Noun

general usage

Clemency can also refer to a disposition to show mercy or kindness.

Synonyms

forgiveness, kindness, mercy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clemency

This word is often used in formal or legal settings when referring to a reduction of severity or punishment by someone in authority, like a judge or a president.

  • The governor granted clemency to the prisoner, reducing his life sentence to 20 years
  • The lawyer argued for clemency on behalf of her client
mercy

Often used in situations where someone is spared from harm or punishment, showing compassion and leniency. Can have a religious connotation.

  • The soldier showed mercy to his enemy by letting him go
  • The criminal begged for mercy before the judge passed the sentence
kindness

Refers to the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate. It is often used in everyday life to describe good and benevolent actions.

  • Her kindness towards the homeless was truly inspiring
  • The stranger’s kindness restored his faith in humanity
forgiveness

Used when talking about the act of forgiving someone for their mistakes or wrongdoings. This is more personal and emotional compared to 'clemency'.

  • She asked for forgiveness after realizing her mistake
  • His forgiveness allowed them to rebuild their friendship

Examples of usage

  • She showed clemency towards her friend who made a mistake.
  • The teacher's clemency towards the students helped them learn from their errors.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Throughout history, clemency has been a significant practice in monarchies, where kings could grant pardons to subjects.
  • The Magna Carta of 1215 introduced some limits on royal clemency, establishing that mercy should be fair and just.
  • Religious leaders often exercised clemency to promote peace and reconciliation during conflicts.

Psychology

  • Studies in psychology suggest that practicing clemency can lead to increased happiness, both for the person giving and receiving it.
  • Clemency can create a sense of community and trust, reducing fear and hostility between individuals.
  • Showing clemency fosters emotional growth, allowing individuals to learn from their mistakes without fear of harsh consequences.

Literature

  • In Shakespeare’s works, instances of clemency often highlight the complexities of human nature and the power of forgiveness.
  • Classic novels frequently depict characters who are granted clemency, showcasing transformations from guilt and despair to hope.
  • Clemency can be a recurring theme, representing the struggle between justice and compassion in storytelling.

Legal System

  • Clemency in the legal system may involve pardons, commutations, or reprieves, offering offenders a second chance at life.
  • In the United States, the President has the power to grant clemency, particularly in cases involving federal offenses.
  • Clemency decisions often spark debate about justice, morality, and societal values, revealing divergent opinions on punishment and forgiveness.

Origin of 'clemency'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'clemency' comes from the Latin 'clementia', meaning 'mildness' or 'gentleness'.
  • It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe acts of mercy or forgiveness by rulers.
  • The term is often related to legal contexts, where it's used to describe the act of showing leniency towards offenders.

The word 'clemency' originated from the Latin word 'clementia', meaning mercy or mildness. It has been used in English since the 15th century to refer to the act of showing mercy or leniency. Clemency plays a significant role in legal systems around the world, allowing for the possibility of forgiveness and rehabilitation.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,147, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.