mercy - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
mercy Word Meanings
- compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone
- a blessing that is an act of divine favor
- the power to show kindness to someone in need
mercy Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
mercy Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈmɜːsi/
US
/ˈmɜrsi/
mercy Word Etymology
mercy comes from Old French 'merci' (meaning 'pity, grace') from Latin 'mercedem' (reward). Picture a kind person offering help and forgiveness, embodying compassion to those in need.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I move closer to the tired neighbor and set my gaze on what they need. I pull back my pride, turn toward their pain, and adjust my pace to stay with them. I hold space with quiet patience, letting mercy grow in the space between us. In that moment, choosing to stay with them feels like a small, real grace.
Real Context
Mercy is a noble quality that blends compassion with restraint. In everyday life it shows when someone chooses to help a person in distress, forgives a mistake, or offers a second chance after being wronged. It carries more weight than simple pity because it involves action that benefits the other person, often at some personal cost. Mercy can feel secular, like a practical decision to reduce suffering, or religious, framed as a divine favor extended to those in need. Learners often confuse mercy with mere kindness or with forgiveness alone; true mercy combines both sympathy and practical generosity, without grudging conditions.
Usage Reminders
- - Mercy is different from only kindness or pity
- - Use show mercy or have mercy on someone
- - Mercy can be religious or secular in usage
- - It often implies action or sacrifice
- - Do not overextend mercy in hostile situations
Common Misconceptions
- Mercy is the same as kindness or pity
- Mercy is only a religious term
- Mercy means someone gets what they deserve
- Mercy is only about forgiveness, not helping others
- Mercy does not require any cost or sacrifice
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Learn the main collocations: show mercy on someone, have mercy on someone
- Note that mercy often involves action or sacrifice
- Differentiate mercy from pity, compassion, and simple kindness
- Recognize religious vs secular contexts and choose tone accordingly
- Practice with legal or dramatic contexts to see common usage
- Pronounce with two syllables: MER-cy
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'mercy'?
A.Fear
B.Joy
C.Anger
D.Kindness
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'mercy' used correctly?
A.He laughed with mercy at the joke.
B.She showed no mercy towards the kitten.
C.The teacher punished the student with mercy.
D.They received mercy for their hard work.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'mercy'?
A.Cruelty
B.Justice
C.Compassion
D.Punishment
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'mercy'?
A.Empathy
B.Generosity
C.Humility
D.Vengeance
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life scenario would someone show mercy?
A.A chef preparing a delicious meal
B.A firefighter rescuing a cat from a tree
C.A student helping a friend study
D.A judge sentencing a criminal
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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