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Definitions

reprieve

[ri-preev] / rɪˈpriv /
NOUN
relief of blame, responsibility
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abatement absolution amnesty clemency deferment pardon postponement remission respite suspension truce
STRONG
abeyance acquittal alleviation anchor clearance commute freeing lifeboat lifesaver mitigation palliation release spring stay
WEAK
letup
Antonyms
STRONGEST
continuation
VERB
relieve of blame, responsibility
Synonyms
STRONG
abate absolve allay alleviate amnesty excuse forgive mitigate palliate pardon postpone remit respite
WEAK
grant a stay let go let off let off the hook let off this time let up on
Antonyms
STRONG
accuse aggravate blame charge condemn forward hold increase intensify magnify punish worsen
WEAK
accusation

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.

The latter charge, comprising a breach of allegiance owed to a sovereign or state, was crucial because it was not subject to reprieve or commutation by the governor without consent of the Legislature.

From Slate • Apr. 2, 2026

First Minister John Swinney visited the Larbert factory last September to announce details of the furlough scheme, which offered a reprieve for 400 staff threatened with redundancy.

From BBC • Mar. 31, 2026

A Russian oil tanker was set to deliver the first crude shipment to Cuba since January on Tuesday after Washington gave the crisis-hit island a reprieve from an effective fuel blockade.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 2026

On Thursday he extended his reprieve for Iran’s energy sites again to April 6.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 26, 2026

Bran pushed himself onto his side, grateful for the reprieve.

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.