Meaning & use
extenuating circumstances
Facts surrounding a situation that make a fault or offense seem more understandable or excusable.
See it in a sentence
The judge reduced the sentence after hearing about the extenuating circumstances of the case.
She missed the deadline, but extenuating circumstances like a family emergency were considered.
A note on using this word
This phrase is common in legal and academic contexts to explain, not fully excuse, a lapse or wrongdoing.
Words with a similar meaning
mitigating factors
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “extenuating circumstances”, then compare your use with the examples above.
Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.