Mercy
ˈmɜːrsi
Definitions
Compassionate treatment, especially of someone who is in one's power; clemency.
ˈmɜːrsi
Compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is in one's power to punish or harm.
The soldiers begged for mercy from their captors.
💡 Simply: Think of a time when you decided to be kind instead of being mean. Mercy is about letting someone off the hook, especially when you could have been tough. Like when you decide not to tell on your friend for breaking a rule because you understand.
👶 For kids: When you don't punish someone even though you could, and you feel sorry for them.
More Examples
The court showed mercy and gave him a lighter sentence.
She pleaded for mercy, knowing she was in the wrong.
How It's Used
"The judge showed mercy and reduced the sentence."
"They prayed for God's mercy."
"The injured animal begged for mercy."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
At the mercy of
To be completely controlled by someone or something.
"The sailors were at the mercy of the storm."
Show no mercy
To be completely ruthless and unforgiving.
"The team showed no mercy to their opponents, winning by a landslide."
From Old French "merci" (grace, pity), from Latin "merces" (reward, wages), related to "merx" (merchandise). The word evolved to signify compassion, forgiveness, and leniency.
The concept of mercy has existed throughout history, with religious texts and philosophical discussions emphasizing its importance.
Memory tip
Imagine a king, who is able to execute his enemies, decides to show 'mercy' instead of violence
Word Origin
"reward, wages"