extenuating circumstance

USAGE SUMMARY

"extenuating circumstance" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a circumstance that might make a situation or decision less serious or severe. For example, "The judge took into consideration the extenuating circumstance of the defendant's unstable home life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

His half of the draw sheet has been by far the unluckier in respect of playing conditions, not that Spieth offered extenuating circumstance.

The Guardian - Sport

Family members of those killed have sued individuals, banks, and corporations that allegedly provided support to Al Qaeda as it grew, thus entering the foggy precincts of terrorist finance, where facts are elusive and every accused has a story of extenuating circumstance.

The New Yorker

Whatever the extenuating circumstance, many a promising job prospect has broken down at the interview stage.

TechCrunch

That's the extraordinary, extenuating circumstance that got this particular ball rolling.

Huffington Post

Students are encouraged to share personal problems with their tutors in confidence, and may be advised to disclose serious adverse events via extenuating circumstance forms.

BMC Medical Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"Our Code of Practice on Extenuating Circumstances does not contain an exhaustive list of what might be treated as an extenuating circumstance, but rape or sexual assault are examples of the type of exceptional and unforeseen events which can be considered as an extenuating circumstance".

Independent

"Extenuating circumstances," we lied.

Independent

There were extenuating circumstances.

The New York Times

There are extenuating circumstances.

The New York Times - Sports

Extenuating circumstances, he says.

The New York Times

Occasionally, extenuating circumstances do arise.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "extenuating circumstance", clearly explain what the circumstance is and how it lessens the severity of the situation. For instance, instead of simply stating "There were extenuating circumstances", specify "His lack of prior experience served as an extenuating circumstance, leading to a more lenient sentence."

Common error

Avoid using "extenuating circumstance" as a placeholder for details. Ensure you provide specifics instead of relying on the phrase to do all the work. For example, don't just say "Extenuating circumstances applied"; instead, clarify the specific circumstances and their effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extenuating circumstance" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, it identifies a specific condition or set of facts that mitigate or lessen the severity of an action or situation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Social Media

6%

Wiki

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "extenuating circumstance" is a noun phrase used to describe a condition or fact that lessens the severity of a situation, often influencing decisions in legal or ethical contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English. While its frequency is uncommon, it is predominantly found in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you provide specific details about the circumstance and its impact to avoid vague language. Alternatives such as "mitigating factor" or "justifying reason" can be used to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mitigating factor

Focuses on the aspect of lessening the severity of a situation.

attenuating circumstance

Emphasizes the reduction or weakening of the negative impact.

justifying reason

Highlights the aspect of providing a rationale or excuse for an action.

exculpatory factor

Specifically points to elements that clear someone from blame.

special consideration

Indicates a need for unique handling due to specific conditions.

unusual situation

Highlights the atypical or uncommon nature of the context.

exceptional case

Focuses on the instance being an outlier from the norm.

palliating element

Emphasizes the aspect of making something seem less serious or severe.

vindicating aspect

Highlights the element of clearing from accusation or suspicion.

contextual detail

Focuses on specific information that explains the surrounding conditions.

FAQs

How does "extenuating circumstance" influence legal decisions?

In legal contexts, an "extenuating circumstance" can lead to reduced charges or lighter sentences. It presents details about the offender or the situation that may lessen the blame. Examples include a defendant's mental state or factors of coercion.

What is a simple way to use "extenuating circumstance" in a sentence?

You can use it by saying something like, "The judge considered his youth an "extenuating circumstance"." This suggests that the youth of the individual influenced the decision or outcome.

What's the difference between "extenuating circumstance" and "aggravating circumstance"?

"Extenuating circumstance" refers to factors that reduce the severity of an offense or decision, while "aggravating circumstance" refers to factors that increase the severity.

What are some situations where "extenuating circumstance" might apply?

"Extenuating circumstances" might apply in situations like a crime committed due to duress, a mistake made under significant pressure, or a contract breach caused by unforeseen events. A job loss, illness, or divorce are all "extenuating circumstances".