1. A condition or fact attending an event and having some bearing on it; a determining or modifying factor: Before the hiking trip in the mountains could begin, the weather factor was a circumstance of utmost importance!
2. A condition or fact that determines or must be considered in working out a course of action: Many people think that abortion should be allowed under certain circumstances.
3. The sum of determining factors beyond willful control: Jim couldn't do his homework due to the circumstance that there was a power failure during the night and he couldn't see well enough to do it.
4. A detail accompanying or surrounding an event; such as, in a narrative or series of events: In order to make his decision, Thomas had to consider each circumstance in turn in order not to make a mistake.
5. A formal display or ceremony: Very often the pomp and circumstance of a coronation is always shown on television.
6. A particular incident or occurrence: The circumstance of Jeffrey and Marjory getting married without inviting any guests really surprised their friends.

To render a crime less aggravated, heinous, or reprehensible than it would otherwise be, or to tend to palliate or to lessen its guilt.

Such circumstances may ordinarily be shown in order to reduce a punishment or damages. In contract law, unusual or extraordinary events that prevent performance within a specified time; for example, a delay resulting from a strike by workers or suppliers.