Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
extenuating circumstances
phrase
ɛkˈstɛnjuˌeɪtɪŋ ˈsɜrkəmˌstæn̩sɪz
Definition
Factors that lessen the severity or culpability of an offense or situation.
Examples
- The judge considered the extenuating circumstances before passing the sentence.
- Her late submission was accepted due to extenuating circumstances like a family emergency.
- Extenuating circumstances can influence a jury’s decision in a trial.
Meaning
Extenuating circumstances refer to conditions or situations that may lessen the blame for an action or event. These circumstances often provide context that helps explain why something happened.
Synonyms
- mitigating factors
- alleviating circumstances
- attenuating circumstances
- lessening circumstances
