extenuation

Definitions of extenuation
  1. noun
    a partial excuse to mitigate censure; an attempt to represent an offense as less serious than it appears by showing mitigating circumstances
    synonyms: mitigation
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    type of:
    alibi, exculpation, excuse, self-justification
    a defense of some offensive behavior or some failure to keep a promise etc.
  2. noun
    to act in such a way as to cause an offense to seem less serious
    synonyms: mitigation, palliation
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    type of:
    decrease, diminution, reduction, step-down
    the act of decreasing or reducing something
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