EXTENUATING

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does extenuating mean? 

• EXTENUATING (adjective)
  The adjective EXTENUATING has 1 sense:

1. partially excusing or justifying

  Familiarity information: EXTENUATING used as an adjective is very rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• EXTENUATING (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Partially excusing or justifying

Context example:

extenuating circumstances

Similar:

exculpatory (clearing of guilt or blame)

 Context examples 

“Those who are showing a preference for fresh red cells might consider discontinuing this practice unless there are extenuating circumstances.”

(Fresh red blood cell transfusions do not help critically ill children more than older cells, National Institutes of Health)

Miss Bennet was the only creature who could suppose there might be any extenuating circumstances in the case, unknown to the society of Hertfordshire; her mild and steady candour always pleaded for allowances, and urged the possibility of mistakes—but by everybody else Mr. Darcy was condemned as the worst of men.

(Pride and Prejudice, by Jane Austen)