acts of clemency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acts of clemency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing mercy, leniency, or forgiveness, often in legal or moral discussions. Example: "The governor's decision to grant acts of clemency to several inmates was met with mixed reactions from the public."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Presumably, the president is willing to use acts of clemency to right the wrongs of the sentencing and judicial systems.

The New York Times

On Monday, The Associated Press, in a review of Mr. Huckabee's record on acts of clemency, found that he had granted 1,033 pardons and commutations in his 10 years as governor.

The New York Times

While the DuMond case continues to follow Mr. Huckabee on the campaign trail, the large number of acts of clemency were controversial within Arkansas while Mr. Huckabee was governor.

The New York Times

Morrison advocates hope that other recent acts of clemency shown to dead celebrities — the former New York governor George E. Pataki's pardon of Lenny Bruce in 2003; the annulment of Kenneth L. Lay's conviction in 2006 — will influence the board to vote in the affirmative.

The New York Times - Arts

Chelsea Manning is on Obama's short list for his final acts of clemency.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

If that is the case, one could hardly call this an act of clemency.

The New Yorker

Dreyfus accepted the act of clemency but reserved the right to do all in his power to establish his innocence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mr. Cuomo can grant pardons to people who have been convicted of a state crime, or commute their sentences through an act of clemency.

The New York Times

Neither Mr. Schwarzenegger nor the elder Mr. Núñez would discuss the matter, but the act of clemency was the talk of Sacramento on Inauguration Day.

The New York Times

King Abdullah revoked that sentence on Thursday, an act of clemency that, for many, remained a reminder of the arbitrary power of the Saudi monarchy.

The New York Times

Another explanation was hinted at by Miss Suu Kyi's lawyer, who suggested the act of clemency might also complicate the appeal she is to make against the verdict.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about legal or political matters, use "acts of clemency" to specifically refer to official actions of forgiveness or leniency granted by an authority, like a president or governor.

Common error

Avoid using "acts of clemency" in informal contexts where simple forgiveness is meant. Reserve it for situations involving official legal or governmental pardons and commutations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acts of clemency" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It refers to specific instances where mercy or leniency is officially granted, especially in legal or governmental contexts. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through its examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "acts of clemency" is a noun phrase that refers to official instances of mercy or leniency, primarily within legal and political contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news and media sources. While "acts of clemency" is appropriate for formal discussions about pardons and commutations, it should be distinguished from general expressions of forgiveness. Alternatives like "acts of mercy" or "leniency measures" can be used to reflect subtle differences in meaning. The phrase is most suitable when discussing decisions made by authorities, such as presidents or governors, regarding legal mercy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mercy acts

Emphasizes the compassionate nature of the actions taken.

acts of leniency

Focuses on the mild or tolerant treatment given, rather than strict punishment.

pardoning acts

Specifically refers to the action of granting pardons, implying forgiveness for offenses.

acts of grace

Implies a benevolent and generous nature in the granting of clemency.

leniency measures

Focuses on the actions taken to show leniency, emphasizing the procedural aspect.

commutations of sentence

Specifically refers to reducing the severity of a sentence, such as shortening a prison term.

executive clemency

Highlights the role of the executive branch in granting clemency, focusing on official actions.

compassionate release

Emphasizes the release of individuals based on compassionate grounds, often due to illness or hardship.

reprieves

Refers to the temporary suspension of a sentence, offering a chance for reconsideration.

amnesty grants

Involves a general pardon issued to a group of people, often for political offenses.

FAQs

How can I use "acts of clemency" in a sentence?

You can use "acts of clemency" to describe situations where an authority, such as a governor or president, grants pardons or reduces sentences. For example: "The president's "acts of clemency" were controversial."

What's a good alternative to "acts of clemency"?

Alternatives include "acts of mercy", "pardoning acts", or "leniency measures", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "acts of clemency" and "executive clemency"?

"Acts of clemency" is a general term, while "executive clemency" specifically refers to clemency granted by the executive branch of government, such as a president or governor.

In what context is "acts of clemency" most appropriately used?

"Acts of clemency" is most appropriately used in legal and political contexts when discussing formal pardons, commutations of sentences, or other official acts of leniency granted by an authority.