extenuate
UK/ik'stenjueit/US
TOEFLGREC2
Definitions
v.
To lessen the seriousness of a fault or offense by providing partial excuses.
减轻（罪行等的严重性），为…找借口
Root Breakdown
Native Englishexout of, former
+
tenuother
+
ateto make, having
=extenuate
Example Sentences
- 1.
The lawyer tried to extenuate the client's behavior by explaining mitigating circumstances.
- 2.
Nothing can extenuate such deliberate cruelty toward innocent animals.