extenuating
词根词缀：
attenuate v. 使变薄
at 加强 + tenu 细，薄 + ate 使… → 使变薄
extenuate v. 减轻
ex 加强 + tenu 细，薄 + ate 做，造成，使… →〔把重罪〕弄轻 → 减轻〔罪行〕
extenuating adj. 掩盖罪行的
extenuat〔e〕减轻 + ing 正…的，令人…的 → 掩盖罪行的
tenuity n. 细，薄
tenu 细，薄 + ity 具备某种性质，状况 → 细，薄
tenuous adj. 细的
tenu 细，薄 + ous …的 → 细的
数据来源：新东方英语词汇速记大全
相关例句：
There are extenuating circumstances why I was late; the intercity train broke down and we had to wait more than an hour for a replacement.
我的迟到情有可原：市际火车发生故障，结果我们只得等待一个多小时更换火车。
The defendants decide to admit their guilt, but insist that there are extenuating circumstances.
被告方决定认罪，但是坚称有从轻情节。
He stole the money, but there are extenuating circumstances.
他是偷了钱，但有可以减轻罪责的情况。
In his great mercy, the jury awards of extenuating circumstances condemned the conditions listed below.
在他的伟大仁慈，陪审团裁决的情有可原的情况下受到谴责的情况如下。
Because of extenuating circumstances, the court acquitted him of the crime.
因考虑到情有可原，法庭判他无罪。
The young man was terribly rude to his friend, but there were extenuating circumstances.
那位年轻人当时对待他的朋友十分无礼，但是情有可原。