extenuate
v[Tn]
(fml esp law 文, 尤用於法律) make (wrongdoing) less serious (by providing an excuse) (提出藉口或理由)使(罪过)的严重性减轻
Nothing can extenuate such appalling behaviour. 这种骇人听闻的行径罪无可恕.
Because of extenuating circumstances (ie facts taken into consideration that might be regarded as an excuse), the court acquitted him of the crime. 因考虑到情有可原, 法庭判他无罪.