compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm, an event to be grateful for, especially because it prevents something unpleasant or provides relief from suffering

take no prisoners (and show no mercy), with (the) greatest of ease (and mercy), show someone the mercy of the law

have mercy on someone, at the mercy of someone/something, beg for mercy

Formal and Informal Expressions of mercy

In different contexts, you can replace 'mercy' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'leniency, clemency' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'forgiveness, pity' is a commonplace synonym.

mercy: Explore its Definition & Usage

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

Antonyms for mercy

Idioms Using mercy

take no prisoners (and show no mercy)
to be ruthless and show no compassion or mercy
Example
The company took no prisoners when it came to firing employees during the pandemic.
with (the) greatest of ease (and mercy)
with extreme ease and without causing harm or difficulty
Example
The gymnast performed the routine with the greatest of ease and mercy, impressing the judges.
show someone the mercy of the law
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

have mercy on someone
show compassion or forgiveness towards someone
Example
Please have mercy on me and forgive my mistake.
at the mercy of someone/something
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.
beg for mercy
plead for compassion or forgiveness
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'

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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.