Idioms

extenuating circumstances

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extenuating circumstances

A non-specific reason that excuses something that would otherwise be troublesome or problematic. All I heard was that the professor gave her an extension on her term paper due to extenuating circumstances. Don't let other people convince you that questionable actions are acceptable under extenuating circumstances. A: "Yes, I did leave the party early, due to extenuating circumstances." B: "Like your ex showing up?"
See also: circumstance
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

extenuating circumstances

special (but otherwise unspecified) circumstances that account for an irregular or improper way of doing something. Mary was permitted to arrive late because of extenuating circumstances. Due to extenuating circumstances, the teacher will not meet with the class today.
See also: circumstance
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

extenuating circumstances

A situation or condition that provides an excuse for an action, as in Although Nancy missed three crucial rehearsals, there were extenuating circumstances, so she was not dismissed . This expression was originally legal terminology, denoting circumstances that partly excuse a crime and therefore call for less punishment or damages. [c. 1600]
See also: circumstance
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
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References in periodicals archive
"A clearly-worded clause in the code of practice on extenuating circumstances would confirm that students are able to seek academic support from a welfare or personal tutor, ensuring their academic performance will not suffer while they begin their recovery."
"To date Parking Eye has not received an appeal against this parking charge, but we would always encourage individuals to do so if they feel there are extenuating circumstances."
Criminal case law is replete with examples of extenuating circumstances cited as reasons for lesser, or at least non-lethal, punishment.
"There were extenuating circumstances because this bug has been going through the club and there were a few players out there who did their best but clearly weren't really up to it.
"It's extenuating circumstances and whereas he wasn't the one to have the child, it's still a big day for any man, so we've tried to give him a bit of space.
However, library chiefs said the majority of readers borrow responsibly and exceptions are made for extenuating circumstances such as illness.
It's a quick procedure that is less traumatic to the patient and the procedure of choice unless there are extenuating circumstances.
The agreement signed in 2007 allowed either party to exit the agreement in extenuating circumstances beyond their control, such as UN sanctions, in what is called a force majeure clause.
"It is totally inappropriate to claim that the Turkish government tried to find extenuating circumstances for the accused and used expressions in its defense keeping Dink responsible for his killing," he said.
The company added that those with extenuating circumstances may be eligible for a new loan in a shorter time frame.
In its statement, Dorel pointed out the extenuating circumstances of the infant's death.
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