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.
gruff
The definition for gruff is "Rough or stern in manner or speech." Used in a sentence: Heidi's grandfather was gruff, barking stern orders and hardly smiling.
incongruous
The definition for incongruous is "Not harmonious, incompatible." Used in a sentence: Sadie's cowboy hat was incongruous with her black cocktail dress.
moderate
The definition for moderate is "Tending toward the average." Used in a sentence: The best–selling writer was disappointed; his new novel was only a moderate success.
parity
The definition for parity is "Equality." Used in a sentence: Hilda, to avoid squabbles, aimed for parity in the slices of birthday cake.