extenuating
The definition for extenuating is "Partially excusing." Used in a sentence: The extenuating circumstance of Calvin's illness caused the teacher to excuse his lateness.
polarize
The definition for polarize is "To break up into opposing groups." Used in a sentence: Thelma tended to polarize discussions rather than to encourage compromise.
prominence
The definition for prominence is "Importance." Used in a sentence: The singer's prominence ensured that the concert would sell out.
straddle
The definition for straddle is "To favor opposing sides." Used in a sentence: Kia straddled the issue, not wanting to say whether James or Tara was right.
turpitude
The definition for turpitude is "Essential baseness, depravity." Used in a sentence: The turpitude of the villain in the movie offended most audiences.