commutation of

USAGE SUMMARY

"commutation of" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a change or substitution of something. You can use it in a variety of contexts, such as legal, financial, or transportation-related. Example: The commutation of his prison sentence to community service was seen as a fair compromise by both the prosecution and the defense.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They still can't request a commutation of their sentences, or own a firearm.

The Economist

"He was recommended for and received commutation of his original sentence from 1990," the statement said.

The New York Times

It was only the fifth commutation of his presidency, and the first involving crack cocaine.

The New York Times

Mr. Bush could, however, issue a pre-emptive pardon or commutation of sentence for Mr. Stevens.

The New York Times

"Accordingly, a commutation of his sentence is not appropriate at this time".

The New York Times

Carries as baggage: His role in President Bill Clinton's commutation of a prison sentence for a cocaine dealer, Carlos Vignali.

The New York Times

THIS week in the paper I'm writing about the commutation of Marcus Robinson's sentence from death to life without the possibility of parole.

The Economist

Last year, none of the 16 death-row inmates seeking commutation of their sentences could muster even a single vote for clemency from the parole board.

The Economist

The judge, a former prosecutor, has written a letter toPresident Obamasupporting a commutation of the sentence, and praising Mr. Walker's record as a model prisoner.

The New York Times - Science

The commutation of tax for service also meant a decrease in the circulation of money; copper coins replaced those of gold and silver.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Gov. George E. Pataki's recent commutation of Emmanuel Nkemakolam's 15-years-to-life sentence for felony drug possession (news article, Dec. 28) is a welcome action.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about legal or official actions, use "commutation of" to accurately describe the change of a sentence to a less severe one. For example, "The governor approved the "commutation of" the prisoner's sentence."

Common error

Avoid using "commutation of" when a "pardon" is more appropriate. A "commutation of" sentence reduces the severity of a sentence, while a "pardon" forgives the crime and removes the conviction.

Linguistic Context

"Commutation of" functions as a prepositional phrase, often acting as a noun modifier or within a larger noun phrase. Ludwig AI indicates it describes a specific type of change or substitution, typically in formal contexts like law or government.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "commutation of" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term, especially in legal and official settings. Ludwig AI confirms its role in describing alterations to previously imposed sentences. While it's often confused with related terms like "pardon", understanding its specific legal definition is crucial for accurate writing. The phrase sees widespread use in contexts like legal reporting, encyclopedic entries, and news articles. By following usage guidelines and avoiding common errors, you can effectively incorporate "commutation of" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reduction in

Focuses on decreasing the severity or length of something, particularly sentences.

lessening of

Emphasizes making something smaller or less intense.

alteration of

Highlights the act of changing the form or nature of something.

modification of

Suggests a change that improves or adapts something for a specific purpose.

conversion to

Implies a change into a different form or state.

substitution with

Focuses on replacing one thing with another.

exchange for

Highlights the act of giving one thing and receiving another in its place.

replacement with

Emphasizes the act of replacing something, often due to damage or obsolescence.

reversal of

Implies undoing or changing to the opposite.

inversion of

Suggests turning something upside down or changing its order.

FAQs

How does a "commutation of" sentence differ from a pardon?

A "commutation of" sentence reduces the length or severity of the punishment, whereas a pardon forgives the crime and restores the individual's civil rights.

When might someone seek a "commutation of" sentence?

An inmate may seek a "commutation of" sentence based on good behavior, rehabilitation, or changes in laws that make their original sentence disproportionate.

What are some alternatives to saying "commutation of" sentence?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "reduction in sentence", "shortening of sentence", or "reprieve of sentence".

Is "commutation of" sentence the same as parole?

No, "commutation of" sentence changes the sentence itself, while parole is a conditional release from prison that still requires supervision.