remission

Definition of remission

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ɹɪˈmɪʃən/, SAMPA: /rI"mIS@n/
• Rhymes: -ɪʃən

Noun

remission (plural remissions)

1. A lessening of amount due, as in either work or money or intensity of a thing.
2. A pardon of a sin; the forgiveness of an offense.
3. (medicine) An abatement or lessening of the manifestations of a disease.
4. (law) Referring a case back to a lower (inferior) court of law.

Further reading

Commutation or remission is the lessening of a penalty without forgiveness for the crime; the beneficiary is still considered guilty of the offense.

This term differs subtly from country-to-country, but generally:

Remission: Complete or partial cancellation of the penalty, whilst still being considered guilty of said crime (i.e., reduced penalty).