Compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.

दया

English Usage: The judge showed mercy by giving the defendant a lighter sentence.

Hindi Usage: न्यायाधीश ने आरोपित को हल्की सजा देकर दया दिखाई।

To allow the continued existence of someone or something; to show compassion.

दया करना

English Usage: He mercied his foe by sparing his life after the duel.

Hindi Usage: उसने द्वंद्व के बाद अपने प्रतिद्वंद्वी की जान बख्शकर दया की।