mercy
The judge showed mercy and gave the defendant a lighter sentence.
The judge chose not to punish the offender harshly.
compassion or forgiveness toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm
The war criminal begged for mercy during his trial.
The war criminal pleaded for compassion from the court.
The lion showed no mercy to its prey.
The lion did not spare its prey.
Often used in legal, religious, or moral contexts to describe leniency.
a fortunate outcome; a blessing
It was a mercy that the storm passed without damage.
The storm's passing without damage was a relief.
Common in poetic or archaic usage.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid common mistakes
Do not confuse 'mercy' with 'sympathy.' Mercy involves power (e.g., a judge showing mercy to a defendant), while sympathy is simply feeling sorry for someone's suffering.
Gold Rule
Use in context
Mercy is typically used when someone in a position of power chooses to be lenient. For example, 'The king showed mercy to the rebels' implies the king had the power to execute them but chose not to.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'merci', from Old French 'merci' (mercy, pity), from Latin 'merces' (reward, wages), from 'merx' (merchandise). The shift from 'reward' to 'compassion' occurred in religious contexts, where God's mercy was a gift of forgiveness.
Usage Notes
Mercy implies a power imbalance—one person has the authority to punish or harm but chooses not to. It is often associated with divine or judicial contexts but can apply to any situation where leniency is shown.