Thesaurus

mercy

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

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Synonyms & Antonyms of mercy

1 kind, gentle, or compassionate treatment especially towards someone who is undeserving of it

always show your enemies mercy, because it makes you a better person

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2 an act of kind assistance

did a mercy for the stranded motorist and was richly rewarded

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3 the capacity for feeling for another's unhappiness or misfortune

a woman of such mercy that she's been known to cry over dead rodents

Synonyms for mercy

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cruelty,
harshness

Antonyms for mercy

Frequently Asked Questions About mercy

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