Mercy vs. Forgiveness — What's the Difference?

Leniency in judgment or punishment.

The act of pardoning an offense.

A disposition to be kind or forgiving.

Restoration of friendly relations.

Compassion shown to someone who has done wrong.

Releasing resentment or anger.

A relief from suffering.

Absolving someone from blame.

A blessing or act of divine favor.

Forgiveness, in a psychological sense, is the intentional and voluntary process by which one who may initially feel victimized, undergoes a change in feelings and attitude regarding a given offense, and overcomes negative emotions such as resentment and vengeance (however justified it might be). Theorists differ, however, in the extent to which they believe forgiveness also implies replacing the negative emotions with positive attitudes (i.e.

Mercy (Middle English, from Anglo-French merci, from Medieval Latin merced-, merces, from Latin, "price paid, wages", from merc-, merxi "merchandise") is benevolence, forgiveness, and kindness in a variety of ethical, religious, social, and legal contexts. In the social and legal context, mercy may refer both to compassionate behavior on the part of those in power (e.g.

The act of forgiving; pardon.

Compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm

The action of forgiving.

Used in expressions of surprise or fear

Readiness to forgive.

Compassionate treatment, especially of those under one's power; clemency.

The act of forgiving; the state of being forgiven; as, the forgiveness of sin or of injuries.

A disposition to be kind and forgiving

Disposition to pardon; willingness to forgive.

Something for which to be thankful; a blessing

Compassionate feelings that support a willingness to forgive

Alleviation of distress; relief

The act of excusing a mistake or offense

(uncountable) Relenting; forbearance to cause or allow harm to another.

A conscious decision to let go of feelings of vengeance.

(uncountable) Forgiveness or compassion, especially toward those less fortunate.

(uncountable) A tendency toward forgiveness, pity, or compassion.

(countable) Instances of forbearance or forgiveness.

(countable) A blessing; something to be thankful for.

(uncountable) A children's game in which two players stand opposite with hands grasped and twist each other's arms until one gives in.

To feel mercy

To show mercy; to pardon or treat leniently because of mercy

Expressing surprise or alarm.

Forbearance to inflict harm under circumstances of provocation, when one has the power to inflict it; compassionate treatment of an offender or adversary; clemency.

Compassionate treatment of the unfortunate and helpless; sometimes, favor, beneficence.

Disposition to exercise compassion or favor; pity; compassion; willingness to spare or to help.

A blessing regarded as a manifestation of compassion or favor.

Leniency and compassion shown toward offenders by a person or agency charged with administering justice;

A disposition to be kind and forgiving;

The feeling that motivates compassion

Something for which to be thankful;

Alleviation of distress; showing great kindness toward the distressed;

No, mercy is compassion shown to wrongdoers, while forgiveness is releasing resentment.

No, they are distinct acts. One can show mercy without offering forgiveness.

Often, those in positions of power or authority, like judges, show mercy.

No, it means choosing compassion or leniency, not necessarily agreeing with the act.

It can bring peace, reduce stress, and promote healing.

No, forgiveness can be an act of empowerment and healing.

Yes, just like forgiveness, it's a conscious decision.

Not necessarily. One can forgive but still remember the event.

Often, but not always. It can also mean lessening severity.

Yes, one might act leniently without letting go of resentment.

Anyone who feels wronged or hurt can choose to grant forgiveness.

Forgiveness is a personal choice, and feelings can change, but true forgiveness is a commitment.

No, forgiveness is a personal process that can take time.

It brings humanity to justice, ensuring punishments are fair and rehabilitative.

Most religions advocate for forgiveness, seeing it as virtuous, but interpretations can vary.