How Do You Spell AT THE MERCY OF?

Pronunciation: [at ðə mˈɜːsi ɒv] (IPA)

"At the mercy of" is a common phrase used to describe being vulnerable to someone or something. The spelling of this phrase follows the English phonetic rules, with the /æt ðə ˈmɜrsi ʌv/ IPA transcription indicating the correct pronunciation. It is important to note that the word "mercy" is spelled with a "c" and not an "s" despite the similar sound in pronunciation. This phrase dates back to the 16th century and has remained unchanged in spelling and meaning over the years.

AT THE MERCY OF Meaning and Definition

1. The phrase "at the mercy of" refers to being in a vulnerable or defenseless position, completely reliant on the mercy or discretion of another person, group, or force. This expression often implies a lack of control or power over a situation, leaving one exposed and susceptible to the actions or decisions of others, without any means of self-defense or protection.

   The word "mercy" in this context denotes compassion, leniency, or kindness that a person may grant when they have authority or control over someone's fate or well-being. Being "at the mercy of" suggests a complete dependence on the goodwill or benevolence of another, lacking the ability to assert one's own desires or preferences.

   This phrase can be used in various contexts, such as describing individuals who are at the mercy of nature's forces, like being caught in a storm or stranded in a remote location. It can also depict situations where people are at the mercy of other people's actions, decisions, or judgments, often involving power dynamics, such as a subordinate being susceptible to the whims of a superior.

   Overall, "at the mercy of" emphasizes a vulnerability and powerlessness in a particular circumstance, highlighting the control or authority that others hold over an individual's fate or well-being.

Common Misspellings for AT THE MERCY OF

• zt the mercy of
• st the mercy of
• wt the mercy of
• qt the mercy of
• ar the mercy of
• af the mercy of
• ag the mercy of
• ay the mercy of
• a6 the mercy of
• a5 the mercy of
• at rhe mercy of
• at fhe mercy of
• at ghe mercy of
• at yhe mercy of
• at 6he mercy of
• at 5he mercy of
• at tge mercy of
• at tbe mercy of
• at tne mercy of
• at tje mercy of

Idioms with the word AT THE MERCY OF

• at the mercy of sb/sth The idiom "at the mercy of someone/something" means being in a vulnerable or helpless position, with no control over the situation or outcomes. It implies being completely reliant on the actions or decisions of another person or external factor, often with potential negative consequences.
• at the mercy of sm The idiom "at the mercy of someone" means to be completely reliant or dependent on someone else's decisions, actions, or power. It suggests a lack of control or being vulnerable to the actions or whims of another person or entity.
• be at the mercy of sth/sb The idiom "be at the mercy of something or someone" means to be completely powerless or dependent on something or someone else. It implies being in a vulnerable situation where others have complete control over one's fate or actions, and there is little or no ability to influence or change the situation.
• be at the mercy of (something) The idiom "be at the mercy of (something)" means to be in a situation where one has no control or power, and is completely dependent on the mercy, decision, or influence of something or someone else. It implies being vulnerable, helpless, or subject to the whims or actions of others.
• at the mercy of somebody/something The idiom "at the mercy of somebody/something" means to be completely under the control or influence of someone or something, often implying a lack of power or ability to change the situation. It suggests being vulnerable, helpless, or dependent with no means of escape or resistance.
• (be) at the mercy of somebody/something "(Be) at the mercy of somebody/something" is an idiom that means to be in a situation where one has no control or power and is entirely dependent on someone or something else. It implies vulnerability, helplessness, and being subjected to the whims or actions of another person or external circumstance.
• at the mercy of someone The idiom "at the mercy of someone" means being in a vulnerable position where someone else has complete control or power over you. It refers to being dependent on someone else's decisions, actions, or whims, without being able to resist or influence the outcome.
• throw oneself at the mercy of sm authority The idiom "throw oneself at the mercy of sm authority" means to submit oneself completely to the judgment or decision of someone in a position of power or authority, usually in a desperate or helpless situation, with the hope of receiving leniency or forgiveness. It implies surrendering control and relying on the mercy or kindness of the authority figure.
• throw oneself at the mercy of some authority The idiom "throw oneself at the mercy of some authority" means to submit or surrender oneself completely to an authority figure, typically in a desperate or vulnerable manner. It implies seeking forgiveness, help, or leniency and being wholly dependent on the mercy and judgment of that authority.
• throw (oneself) on/at the mercy of (someone) When someone throws themselves on/at the mercy of someone, they are putting themselves completely at the mercy or forgiveness of that person, with no control or power over the outcome.
• at the mercy of If someone is "at the mercy of" someone or something, it means they are completely dependent on them and in their power, with no control over their own situation or fate.