A commuted sentence means a punishment from a court or government has been changed to a lighter one. The person is still found guilty, but the original sentence is reduced or replaced with a less severe punishment.
People usually hear this term in news stories about criminal cases or pardons. For example, a prison sentence might be shortened, or a death sentence might be changed to life in prison. In daily use, it simply means the punishment was softened.
Meaning & Usage
When a sentence is commuted, the guilt does not disappear. Only the punishment changes. This can happen because of a judge, a governor, a president, or another legal authority.
Examples
For example, if someone was sentenced to 20 years in prison and that sentence is commuted to 10 years, they will serve less time. Another example is when a death sentence is commuted to life imprisonment.
What does it mean if a sentence is commuted?
It means the original punishment has been reduced or changed to a lighter one.
Is a commuted sentence the same as being forgiven?
No. The person is still considered guilty, but the punishment is less severe.
Who can commute a sentence?
It depends on the country, but it is often a judge, governor, president, or other legal authority.