Related Clues:

• Remove from a set level, as a currency
• Pretext
• Exempted
• Showed leniency
• Frugal
• It's picked up in the alley
• Scanty
• Dropped charges against
• Mitigate
• Was merciful, in a way
• Kept in reserve
• 'The dog ate my homework,' e.g.
• Show clemency
• Got brighter
• Cop-out