The term 'SHOWS MERCY TO' can be summed up as being compassionate and forgiving towards someone. This is often done when someone has made a mistake or done something wrong, and the other person chooses to forgive them instead of punishing them. The crossword solution for this term is 'SPARES', which means to refrain from punishing or harming someone. This is an act of mercy and kindness, and it is often seen as a noble gesture.