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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun mercy differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of mercy are charity, clemency, grace, and leniency. While all these words mean "a disposition to show kindness or compassion," mercy implies compassion that forbears punishing even when justice demands it.

threw himself on the mercy of the court

When would charity be a good substitute for mercy?

While the synonyms charity and mercy 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

When can clemency be used instead of mercy?

The words clemency and mercy are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, clemency implies a mild or merciful disposition in one having the power or duty of punishing.

the judge refused to show clemency

When is it sensible to use grace instead of mercy?

The synonyms grace and mercy 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 leniency a more appropriate choice than mercy?

The words leniency and mercy can be used in similar contexts, but leniency implies lack of severity in punishing.

criticized the courts for excessive leniency

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 mercy Seeing Negan weep over Ginny, who’d died and turned in his absence, Maggie showed him mercy. BFFS? Charlie Mason, TVLine, 22 June 2025 For centuries, Catholics have approached the Sacrament of Confession seeking mercy and reconciliation with God. Hiram Sasser, National Review, 15 June 2025 His ailing wife was allowed to send a special video pleading for mercy, and his daughter, former Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, also weighed in with poignant memories of her father’s guidance. Ray Long, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2025 Grapes are the primary ingredient in winemaking and the choice of yeast can be equally important, but until somewhat recently in wine’s 8,000-year history winemakers were completely at the mercy of the elements including the type of yeast that was already on their grapes and in their winery. Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 17 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for mercy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for mercy
Noun
  • Indeed, the designer’s intentions are based on high ideals — kindness, tolerance and humility among them — even if his methods can sometime shock.
    Miles Socha, Footwear News, 25 June 2025
  • Coach Wall was a remarkable individual whose kindness and genuine spirit touched all who knew him.
    Marni Rose McFall, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 June 2025
Noun
  • Fans, followers and fellow parents took to the comment section to share their sympathy — and confusion.
    Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 26 June 2025
  • Richard, his family, and his counsel express their deep and sincere sympathy for the family of Edwina Marter.
    Khaleda Rahman Shane Croucher, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 June 2025
Noun
  • An individual who lacks empathy may excel at making hard choices like laying off staff or shutting down unprofitable teams.
    Shawn Cole, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
  • Now at the risk of stating the obvious, that feels important; that scene contrasts with the scene with the doctor, the scene with HR, where there's zero empathy whatsoever.
    Andy Crump, Time, 26 June 2025
Noun
  • There’s a rhythm to how Hall leads: present, precise, but full of grace.
    Corein Carter, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
  • However, experts urge giving everyone grace and keeping an open mind.
    Beth Ann Mayer, Parents, 25 June 2025
Noun
  • Thank you for taking action and getting the awesome ranger on the scene with her compassion!
    Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 June 2025
  • Explain with candor and compassion Sometimes, a change simply can’t satisfy pre-existing needs.
    IESE Business School, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
Noun
  • While some investors are willing to lend him some leniency on timing and the exact details, many want concrete signs of progress.
    Bloomberg, Oc Register, 13 June 2025
  • The leniency has led to notable controversies in the past, which the TV Academy had no real issue correcting.
    Clayton Davis, Variety, 28 May 2025
Noun
  • In markets with abundant choice, professionals promoting too many services risk being overlooked.
    Mo Khan, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
  • The problem is there are too many choices; streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video and Disney+ debut new series and new seasons every single day.
    Kelly Lawler, USA Today, 24 June 2025
Noun
  • Brands should take the importance of sustainability measures to heart and weave their commitment to the environment into their messaging—but with care.
    Megan Poinski, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
  • All three forms—fiction, poetry, and essay—feel present in this sweeping reflection from a troubled heart.
    Literary Hub July 1, Literary Hub, 1 July 2025

Cite this Entry

“Mercy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/mercy. Accessed 7 Jul. 2025.

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