extenuation
(noun)
noun
1. a partial excuse to mitigate censure; an attempt to represent an offense as less serious than it appears by showing mitigating circumstances
Similar word(s): mitigation
Definition categories: communication, alibi, exculpation, excuse
2. to act in such a way as to cause an offense to seem less serious
Similar word(s): mitigation, palliation
Definition categories: act, decrease, diminution, reduction