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extenuation

noun

/ɪkˌstɛn yuˈeɪ ʃən/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of extenuation

The act or process of making a wrongdoing or offense seem less serious or forgivable.
"The defendant's history of mental illness served as extenuation for the violent outburst."

Detailed meaning of extenuation

It involves the presentation of mitigating circumstances or factors that can lessen the blame or severity of a situation. Extenuation attempts to provide a reasonable explanation or justification for an action, thereby reducing the negative impact or consequences. It is often employed as a legal or moral defense strategy to persuade others to consider the mitigating factors surrounding an offense. Through extenuation, individuals or parties aim to minimize culpability, show remorse, or shed light on underlying circumstances that may have influenced their behavior, ultimately seeking leniency or understanding from others involved in the judgment or evaluation process.

Example sentences containing extenuation

1. The defendant's lawyer presented a compelling case of extenuation, highlighting the defendant's troubled upbringing and challenging circumstances.
2. Despite his sincere regret, the lack of extenuation made it difficult for the judge to consider a reduced sentence.
3. The accused hoped that the extenuation of his actions, driven by desperation, would sway the jury's opinion in his favor.
4. The perpetrator's attempt at extenuation fell flat as the evidence against him was overwhelming.
5. The team manager provided extenuation for the player's poor performance, citing a recent injury and lack of practice.
6. The defendant's emotional plea for extenuation touched the hearts of the jury members, leading to a more lenient verdict.

History and etymology of extenuation

The noun 'extenuation' has its etymological roots in Latin. It can be traced back to the Latin verb 'extenuare,' which is a combination of 'ex,' meaning 'out,' and 'tenuis,' meaning 'thin' or 'slender.' Therefore, 'extenuare' literally means 'to make thin or slender,' and in a metaphorical sense, it came to signify the act of making something seem less significant or weighty. As this Latin term evolved into Middle English, it gave rise to the noun 'extenuation,' referring to the process of making a wrongdoing or offense appear less serious or forgivable. The word 'extenuation' thus carries with it the notion of diminishing the gravity of a situation, reflecting its origins in the concept of making something 'thin' or less substantial in the eyes of judgment or perception.

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Further usage examples of extenuation

1. The accused's lawyer meticulously gathered evidence to support the extenuation of his client's actions.
2. The company's CEO sought extenuation for the financial losses, blaming unforeseen market conditions and global economic downturn.
3. The student's request for extenuation due to personal hardships was carefully reviewed by the university's administration.
4. The lawyer skillfully utilized the concept of extenuation to sway the judge's decision in favor of the defendant.
5. The defendant's lack of remorse hindered the effectiveness of any extenuation presented by the defense team.
6. His apology showed sincere remorse, but it couldn't serve as an extenuation for his actions.
7. The defendant's lawyer attempted to find extenuation for the client's crime.
8. We must consider any extenuation before passing judgment on the matter.
9. The committee examined every detail in search of an extenuation.
10. Her tears were seen as an extenuation of her guilt.
11. The jury deliberated, weighing the extenuating circumstances of the case.
12. His heartfelt confession was an attempt at extenuation.
13. She hoped that her honest admission would lead to extenuation.
14. The evidence presented offered no extenuation for the defendant.
15. He sought forgiveness, hoping for some form of extenuation.
16. The judge carefully considered the extenuating factors in the sentencing.
17. The defendant's troubled childhood was presented as an extenuation.
18. The media coverage tried to provide extenuation for the celebrity's actions.
19. Despite the extenuating circumstances, justice must prevail.
20. The lawyer argued vehemently for an extenuation of the punishment.
21. The court acknowledged the extenuation but upheld the verdict.
22. Her plea for mercy was based on extenuation rather than innocence.
23. The public debate centered on the question of extenuation.
24. The community's support was seen as a form of extenuation.
25. The remorseful letter served as an extenuation for his misconduct.