French word

clémence

Pronunciation

IPA/klemɑ̃s/

Meaning

  • feminine nounmercy

Example

Le juge a fait preuve de clémence.

The judge showed mercy.

Illustration for clémence (mercy)

More examples

Elle a imploré la clémence de sa famille.

She implored her family's mercy.

Core concept

A judge's open hand replaces a harsh punishment with forgiveness.

Common phrases

  • faire preuve de clémence

    show mercy

  • implorer la clémence

    implore mercy

Similar words

indulgence: A forgiving attitude toward mistakes and shortcomings.
tolérance: A willingness to accept and endure different views or behavior.
bienveillance: A kind concern for another person's happiness and well-being.
compréhension: An effort to understand another person's circumstances and feelings.

Definition in French

Attitude de bonté et de pardon envers quelqu'un qui a commis une faute, sans chercher à punir sévèrement.

Word origin

Clémence comes through Old French from Latin clementia, formed from clemens, meaning mild or merciful.

Usage tips

  • Clémence is feminine, so the usual form is la clémence, especially in faire preuve de clémence.

Other meanings

  • leniencynoun
  • pardonnoun

Opposites

  • sévéritéseveritynoun

Related words

Word lists with this word