1. in a way that shows compassion or forgiveness
2. fortunately; as a relief

Examples

• The judge ruled mercifully, giving the defendant a lighter sentence.
• She spoke mercifully to the frightened child.
• Mercifully, the rain stopped just before the wedding ceremony.
• The meeting was mercifully brief.
• He treated his enemies mercifully despite their cruelty.
• Mercifully, no one was seriously injured in the accident.
• The teacher graded mercifully, considering the difficult test conditions.