mercy Definition
- 1compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm
- 2an event to be grateful for, especially because it prevents something unpleasant or provides relief from suffering
Using mercy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "mercy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The judge showed mercy and gave him a lighter sentence.
Example
I beg you for mercy, please don't hurt me!
Example
The rain came as a mercy to the drought-stricken region.
Example
He was at the mercy of his captors.
mercy Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for mercy
Idioms Using mercy
Example
The company took no prisoners when it came to firing employees during the pandemic.
Example
The gymnast performed the routine with the greatest of ease and mercy, impressing the judges.
to treat someone with fairness and compassion according to the law
Example
The judge showed the defendant the mercy of the law by giving him a reduced sentence.
Phrases with mercy
Example
Please have mercy on me and forgive my mistake.
in a situation where one is helpless and completely under the control of someone or something else
Example
The hostages were at the mercy of their captors.
Example
The prisoner begged for mercy but was still sentenced to life in prison.
Origins of mercy
from Old French 'merci', from Latin 'merces', meaning 'reward'
Summary: mercy in Brief
'Mercy' [ˈmɜːsi] refers to compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone who could be punished or harmed. It can also refer to an event that provides relief from suffering. Examples include 'The judge showed mercy and gave him a lighter sentence.' and 'He was at the mercy of his captors.' Idioms like 'take no prisoners' and 'with the greatest of ease' extend the concept of mercy to ruthless behavior and ease of accomplishment.