extenuate
verb (used with object)
to represent (a fault, offense, etc.) as less serious.
have extenuated
-
present perfectof extenuate.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
He no longer doubted his son's guilt, he even despaired of drawing from the lad a frank admission that might somewhat have extenuated the ugly action.
From The Pocket Bible or Christian the Printer A Tale of the Sixteenth Century by Eug?ne Sue
He would fain have extenuated his offence, but could find no apology for his conduct: He could produce nothing but broken sentences, and excuses which contradicted each other.
From The Monk; a romance by M. G. (Matthew Gregory) Lewis
They have unwisely smoothed away so much and have extenuated so much in their halting and ambiguous phrases, as to create a picture of which the outlines are far too faint.
From William Hickling Prescott by Harry Thurston Peck
I have extenuated nothing, nor set down aught in malice.
From Two Years in Oregon by Wallis Nash
After his apology, Willy would have extenuated his fault.
From The Shadow of a Crime A Cumbrian Romance by Sir Hall Caine
