Definition

To make something seem less serious or important, often by providing excuses or reasons that lessen the blame.

Example

The lawyer tried to extenuate his client's actions by explaining the difficult circumstances.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think we should extenuate his mistakes instead of judging him too harshly.

That's a good point; everyone makes mistakes sometimes.

Yeah, especially when there are so many factors involved.

Exactly, understanding the situation can really change our perspective.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Extenuate → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "tenuare" (meaning to make thin or lessen). The word "extenuate" means to lessen the seriousness or severity of something, as if making it thinner or less substantial.

Memory Tip

Think of 'making something less' ('tenuare') by taking it 'out of' its seriousness ('ex-'). This helps you remember that to extenuate means to lessen the severity of a situation.

Visually Confused Words